Who Holds the Title of the Most Expensive Brazilian Player Ever?
When it comes to iconic footballing nations, Brazil inevitably rises to the top of the discussion. Steeped in a rich history and vibrant culture, the samba boys have dazzled us time and again with their flair and skill on the pitch.
Legends like Pele, the formidable Roberto Carlos, the astonishing Ronaldo, and the magical Ronaldinho have all contributed to a legacy that keeps clubs around the world clamoring to tap into the Brazilian talent pool.
But the question lingers: who holds the accolade of the most expensive Brazilian footballer of all time? Read on to discover the answer…
Standing tall at the summit is none other than Neymar, who simultaneously claims the prestigious title of the most expensive player in football history. His £200million transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017 showcased a bold ambition from the Parisian club to conquer the elusive Champions League. Yet, in a twist of fate, they never did manage to hoist Old Big Ears. Fast forward to 2023, and after a tumultuous few years, Neymar bid adieu to Paris for £77.6million. A calculated risk? Absolutely!
Who held the all-time record transfer fee before Neymar?
Months prior to Neymar’s historic transfer, the record for the most expensive Brazilian transfer was held by Oscar, whose jaw-dropping move to Shanghai SIPG in January 2017 for £60million signified a time when the Chinese Super League was luring talent in a way we now see Saudi Arabia pursuing their own stars.
This sum narrowly eclipsed Kaka’s illustrious switch to Real Madrid in 2009—the £56million fee that Los Blancos shelled out remains a benchmark even today, illustrating the club’s voracious appetite for world-class talent.
Yet, it’s hard to envision a future where Neymar’s staggering transfer fees could be outdone. His £200million escapade to PSG, coupled with his latest £77.6million transfer to Al-Hilal and an earlier £48.6million arrival at Barcelona in 2013, combine to paint a financial picture that rivals the GDP of small nations.
