Manchester United’s 10 Most Expensive Strikers: From Sesko to Lukaku

Manchester United’s history with strikers has always been dramatic, filled with big transfers and even bigger expectations. With the arrival of Benjamin Sesko this summer, the list of United’s most expensive strikers has a new addition. Here’s a closer look at the ten names who cost the club the most over the years.

10. Cristiano Ronaldo – £19.7 million

In 2003, a teenage Cristiano Ronaldo joined Manchester United from Sporting Lisbon. At the time, he was seen as a winger, but his evolution into a global superstar started at Old Trafford. His price tag, £19.7 million, now feels like a bargain compared to today’s market.

9. Ruud van Nistelrooy – £25.5 million

Back in 2001, United brought in Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy from PSV Eindhoven. Known for his sharp finishing, Van Nistelrooy delivered consistently, scoring more than 150 goals for the club.

8. Louis Saha – £27.9 million

In 2004, Louis Saha made the move from Fulham to United. Injuries often limited his impact, but on his day, he was a clinical finisher who played a role in United’s domestic successes.

7. Robin van Persie – £30 million

United signed Robin van Persie from Arsenal in 2012. The Dutch striker immediately became a hero, firing United to their 20th league title in Sir Alex Ferguson’s final season in charge.

6. Anthony Martial – £36 million (rising to £58 million)

Martial’s arrival from Monaco in 2015 was initially a surprise. He remains one of United’s most expensive teenage signings, with potential add-ons making the fee climb. His debut goal against Liverpool is still remembered fondly.

5. Dimitar Berbatov – £36 million

In 2008, United broke the bank for Dimitar Berbatov from Tottenham. His style was calm and elegant, and he delivered with memorable goals, including a famous hat-trick against Liverpool.

4. Radamel Falcao – Loan fee £38 million (with wages)

Though officially a loan move from Monaco in 2014, the cost of Radamel Falcao’s one-season stay at Old Trafford was massive once wages and loan fees were added. Unfortunately, his time in Manchester never hit the heights expected.

3. Rasmus Højlund – £64 million (with add-ons)

United’s latest project before Sesko was Danish forward Rasmus Højlund, signed in 2023. Seen as a long-term option, he had a challenging debut season but remains highly rated.

2. Benjamin Sesko – £73.7 million

The new signing from RB Leipzig, Benjamin Sesko, arrives with high expectations. Manchester United paid around £73.7 million to bring him in, making him the second-most expensive striker in the club’s history. The Slovenian forward is expected to form a fresh partnership with other attacking recruits like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.

1. Romelu Lukaku – £90 million

Topping the list is Romelu Lukaku. United signed him from Everton in 2017 for around £75 million, rising to £90 million with add-ons. Despite scoring regularly, Lukaku’s time at the club was mixed, and he eventually moved on to Inter Milan.

Fixtures Ahead for Manchester United

Manchester United fans won’t have to wait long to see their strikers in action. With the Premier League already underway, Sesko could make his debut in upcoming fixtures. The club hopes the new signings will deliver the goals needed for a successful season.