Ranking the most expensive Manchester City defender signings according to Transfermarkt: Who leads the list?

Since being taken over by UAE owners in 2008, Manchester City has undergone a major transformation. The club quickly became one of the biggest spenders in world football, signing many star players. Although the spending initially received mixed reactions, it eventually brought unprecedented success and numerous trophies. In this article, goaloomobi.com highlights the most expensive Manchester City defender signings according to Transfermarkt.

Most expensive Manchester City defender signings, according to Transfermarkt

List updated as of March 2026.

10. Eliaquim Mangala (FC Porto, 2014/15, €45m)

Many fans may forget this transfer, but Eliaquim Mangala’s move to Manchester City remains one of the most notable and controversial deals in the club’s history. At the time, he became the most expensive defender in English football history, yet his performances failed to justify the price. When Pep Guardiola arrived in 2016, Mangala was no longer part of the manager’s plans. He was repeatedly loaned out before leaving the club permanently in 2019.

9. Nathan Aké (AFC Bournemouth, 2020/21, €45.3m)

Nathan Aké may not be the most spectacular player, but he offers the qualities Pep Guardiola values: versatility and strong ability on the ball. He can play both as a left-sided centre-back and as a left-back. Although Aké is often used as a rotation player, he consistently performs well whenever called upon. He also played an important role during Manchester City’s historic treble season when the team used a back three system. His reliability later earned him a contract extension until 2027.

8. Kyle Walker (Tottenham Hotspur, 2017/18, €52.7m)

Kyle Walker can be seen as one of the first key pieces in Pep Guardiola’s defensive rebuild. Guardiola shifted the team away from relying on veteran full-backs toward a system based on speed and mobility, and Walker perfectly suited this approach. Over time, he also adapted to different tactical roles, including playing as a right-sided centre-back or moving into midfield during possession. Walker has enjoyed major success with Manchester City, including winning the treble in the 2022/23 season.

7. John Stones (Everton, 2016/17, €55.6m)

When John Stones first joined Manchester City for a large fee, many considered the transfer a risk because of his inconsistent defensive performances. However, under Pep Guardiola he gradually developed into a more complete player. During the 2022/23 season, he was even moved into a hybrid midfield role, contributing to both defensive stability and attacking play. This tactical change played an important role in the club’s success that season.

6. Benjamin Mendy (AS Monaco, 2017/18, €57.5m)

Benjamin Mendy was once considered a perfect fit for Guardiola’s system because of his strong physical presence and excellent crossing ability. Unfortunately, his time at the club was heavily disrupted by injuries. Later legal issues also affected his career, and he ended his Manchester City spell with only 75 appearances before leaving as a free agent in 2023.

5. Matheus Nunes (Wolverhampton Wanderers, 2023/24, €62m)

Although Matheus Nunes is naturally a midfielder, Pep Guardiola occasionally used him in deeper roles, including defensive positions, to take advantage of his dribbling and passing ability. As several senior players began entering the later stages of their careers, Nunes received more opportunities to prove himself. Over time, he has become an important part of the squad rotation.

4. Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Bilbao, 2017/18, €65m)

Laporte joined Manchester City after the club activated his release clause, setting a club record fee at the time. His biggest strength is his excellent left-footed passing, especially long diagonal balls to the wings, which became an important tactical option in City’s build-up play. Laporte also scored several important goals, including the decisive goal against Tottenham that secured the 2021 Carabao Cup.

3. João Cancelo (Juventus, 2019/20, €65m)

João Cancelo was a unique type of defender. Although naturally right-footed, he often played on the left side and frequently moved into central areas like a playmaker during possession. His technical ability and influence on the team’s passing game made him one of City’s most important players for several seasons. However, after the 2022 World Cup he gradually lost his place in the squad and later moved on, spending time at several clubs.

2. Rúben Dias (Benfica, 2020/21, €71.6m)

Rúben Dias quickly established himself as Manchester City’s defensive leader after joining from Benfica. In his first season, he won the FWA Footballer of the Year award, a rare honour for a defender. Over time, he became Pep Guardiola’s first-choice centre-back and one of the leaders of the team’s defensive structure. He continues to play an important role and currently serves as the club’s vice-captain.

1. Joško Gvardiol (RB Leipzig, 2023/24, €90m)

Joško Gvardiol is widely regarded as one of the most talented young defenders in world football. His performances at the 2022 World Cup greatly increased his reputation, and Manchester City signed him in 2023 for €90 million, making him one of the most expensive defenders in history. Guardiola later used him in a full-back role, where Gvardiol surprised many with his attacking ability, dribbling, and goal-scoring contributions.

Goaloomobi has compiled the list of the most expensive Manchester City defender signings according to Transfermarkt. While the rankings may change in the future, these are currently the players in the top 10. For more football schedule and updates, please visit our website.