Top 5 most expensive goalkeeper transfers of all time as Andre Onana moves to Man United

In an unexpected turn of events, the current transfer market and a confluence of factors have completely reshaped the perception of goalkeepers' market value.

While traditionally not known for commanding hefty transfer fees, shot-stoppers are now witnessing a reevaluation, challenging the conventional belief and shedding light on their indispensable role in modern football.

Their newfound recognition has redefined the landscape of goalkeeper valuations, adding an intriguing twist to the dynamics of the transfer market.

Onana to enter most expensive list

As per Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United and Inter Milan are nearing a final agreement, and Andre Onana is prepared to travel to Manchester to undergo his medical examination and finalize the contract signing.

It is reported that the Cameroonian goalkeeper will ink a five-year contract, extending until 2028, with a potential option for an additional season until 2029.

The deal, projected to be finalized on Monday, July 17, is expected to amount to approximately £47 million (€54.7m). This valuation would place Onana in the distinguished league of the most expensive goalkeepers ever.

Sports Brief takes a look at the top five most expensive goalkeepers in the history of the sport presently as Andre Onana nears a move to Old Trafford:

5. Thibaut Coutois (Chelsea to Real Madrid) - €35m

Thibaut Courtois secured his place among the most expensive goalkeepers in football history when he controversially transferred to Real Madrid in the 2018-19 season, commanding a staggering €35 million valuation, per Football Transfers.

Joining him in this esteemed company is Dutch goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen, who made a noteworthy move from Barcelona to Valencia during the 2019-2020 campaign, also carrying a significant transfer price tag.

Their high-profile transfers underscore the substantial investments made for elite goalkeeping talent in recent years.

4. Ederson (Benfica to Manchester City) - €40m

In the summer of 2017, Manchester City secured the services of Ederson, investing heavily to make him the second-most expensive goalkeeper in history as a replacement for Claudio Bravo.

Since then, this strategic move has yielded remarkable results, contributing significantly to City's triumphant journey, including a remarkable treble in the previous season.

Although there have been occasional doubts about his shot-stopping abilities, it is undeniable that Ederson's positive impact far outweighs any negatives, establishing him as an invaluable asset for the team.

3. Gianluigi Buffon (Parma to Juventus) - €52.88m

The third most expensive goalkeeper of all time is iconic Italian shot-stopper Gianluigi Buffon thanks to his move from Parma to Juventus way back in 2001.

According to Goalkeeper.com, his transfer shattered previous records and stood as the world's most expensive goalkeeper transfer until 2018.

Throughout his illustrious career, he has amassed an impressive collection of trophies, except the UEFA Champions League, which remains the only major title missing from his extensive trophy cabinet.

Moreover, Buffon's longevity in the sport is truly remarkable, further solidifying his legendary status.

2. Alisson (AS Roma to Liverpool) - €62.5m

The transfer of Alisson ahead of the 2018-19 season completely transformed a sub-par Liverpool side into European Champions in just 12 months. Since then, Alisson has firmly established himself as one of the finest goalkeepers in the world.

Alisson's unwavering confidence and commanding presence provided the solid foundation for Liverpool's most successful era in the 21st century.

His outstanding performances have earned him numerous individual accolades during his time at Liverpool, including The FIFA Best Goalkeeper (2019), Yashin Trophy (2019), Champions League Goalkeeper of the Season (2019), and two-time Premier League Golden Glove winner (2019 and 2022). These achievements further cement his reputation as an exceptional talent in his position.

1. Kepa Arrizabalaga (Athletic Club to Chelsea) - €80m

Since his arrival at Chelsea from Athletic Club in 2018, Kepa's performance has encountered difficulties, but he still retains the distinction of being the most expensive goalkeeper in history.

The Blues secured his services for an astonishing fee of €80 million. The Spanish club adheres strictly to their policy of exclusively employing players from the Basque region, which makes it costly to acquire their talents.

Consequently, in the summer transfer window of 2018, Chelsea found themselves compelled to break the world record fee for a goalkeeper in order to secure Kepa, as they had lost Thibaut Courtois to Real Madrid.