Liverpool tops transfer spending table; Al-Hilal sees $1bn deficit

Liverpool has surpassed Chelsea to lead the world in transfer spending, now totaling €1.226 billion ($1.42 billion) for their squad, according to the CIES Football Observatory. High-profile signings this summer, including Bradley Barcola and Ronald Araujo, contributed to this figure. Al-Hilal recorded the largest net transfer deficit, exceeding $1 billion over the past five years, with a total spend of €925 million ($1.07 billion) in that period. They continue to invest heavily, posting a deficit of €287 million ($333 million) in 2026 alone, the highest worldwide. The findings underscore the considerable financial influence of English clubs in global football.

• 10:33 PMYahoo Sports — Liverpool top world spending table Al-Hilal hit $1bn transfer deficit