Top 5 most expensive defensive midfielders in the world in 2021

The role of a defensive midfielder is one of the key reasons for their team's success. No team can be successful without a good defensive midfielder. But they usually don't get…

By Rishab Chakladar

May 17, 2021

2 min read

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The role of a defensive midfielder is one of the key reasons for their team’s success. No team can be successful without a good defensive midfielder. But they usually don’t get the credit they deserve.

1. Rodri [Atletico Madrid to Manchester City – €62.7m]

Rodri joined Manchester City from Atletico Madrid for €62.7million in 2019. After one tough season, he got his rhythm in the Premier League this campaign. The Spaniard has established himself as a key reason for Pep Guardiola’s team’s success this season.

2. Jorginho [Napoli to Chelsea – €57m]

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – JULY 11: Jorginho of Chelsea runs with the ball during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Chelsea FC at Bramall Lane on July 11, 2020 in Sheffield, England. Football Stadiums around Europe remain empty due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in all fixtures being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Peter Powell/Pool via Getty Images)

Jorginho joined Chelsea from Napoli in 2018. He was bought by Maurizio Sarri. He was often criticised for his performances. But he has improved year after year in the league and has also started chipping in with goals off late, as seen by the seven strikes he has netted so far this season.

3. Thomas Partey [Atletico Madrid to Arsenal – €50m]

Thomas Partey has joined Arsenal leaving Atletico Madrid in January 2020. He was surprised to move when he decided to leave Atletico Madrid for a struggling Arsenal side. The 27 years old midfielder has made 31 appearances for the Gunners so far this season but is yet to display the form that made him one of the best in Spain.

4. Granit Xhaka [Borussia Monchengladbach to Arsenal – €45m]

Another Arsenal midfielder in the list. Granit Xhaka joined Arsenal from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2016. But he has failed to perform on a consistent basis and after 218 appearances, it looks like he is on his way out of the Emirates come the end of the season.

5. Fabinho [AS Monaco to Liverpool – €45m]:

Fabinho joined Liverpool in 2018 and has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world during his time at Anfield. He was the key part of Liverpool’s recent Champions League and Premier League title triumphs.