Atletico Madrid's Argentine forward #19 Julian Alvarez celebrates after scoring their third goal during the Spanish league football match between Club Atletico de Madrid and Rayo Vallecano de Madrid at the Metropolitano stadium in Madrid on September 24, 2025. (Photo by Javier SORIANO / AFP)
The modern football transfer market has reached unprecedented financial heights, with clubs increasingly willing to spend well over £100 million to secure the world’s top talent.
However, a review of the largest failed transfer attempts in football history shows that even eye-watering sums are not always enough to persuade clubs to sell their prized assets.
As reported by Planet Football on Friday, topping the list is the reported £259 million bid made by Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal for French superstar Kylian Mbappe in 2023.
Paris Saint-Germain were reportedly prepared to accept the offer, but the player declined the move, ultimately joining Real Madrid on a free transfer a year later.
