Top 30 Transfers from Asia to Europe: Kyogo 21st, Hulk 6th, Paulinho Tops the List
Kyogo 21st, Hulk 6th – The biggest transfers from Asia to Europe
In today’s global transfer market, the flow of talent is more international than ever. European clubs—once focused largely on domestic or neighboring leagues—are now tapping into emerging markets across the world. Among them, Asia has become a valuable source of both rising stars and experienced professionals looking to return to the European stage.
Nations such as Japan, South Korea, and players returning from lucrative stints in Qatar and Saudi Arabia have contributed to a growing number of high-profile transfers. Here, we look at the top 30 most expensive transfers involving players moving from Asia to Europe, highlighting key names and the significance behind their moves.
Notable Transfers Ranked 30–16
At number 30, Burak Yilmaz returned to Turkey via a €4 million transfer from Beijing Guoan to Trabzonspor, despite a short spell in Asia. Similarly, at #27, Toby Alderweireld moved from Qatar’s Al-Duhail to Royal Antwerp—a homecoming likely to be his career’s final chapter.
Legendary South Korean midfielder Ji-Sung Park appears at #23, thanks to his €5 million move from Kyoto Sanga to PSV—a launchpad that led him to greatness at Manchester United, where he claimed multiple Premier League titles and a Champions League medal.
Coming in at #21, Kyogo Furuhashi’s €5.4 million transfer from Vissel Kobe to Celtic in 2021 proved hugely impactful. He quickly became a cornerstone of the Scottish club’s attacking success.
Further up, Marko Arnautović’s €6 million move from Shanghai Port to Bologna highlights the trend of players returning from China to re-establish themselves in Europe. At #16, Danish legend Michael Laudrup‘s €7.5 million transfer from Vissel Kobe to Ajax in 1997 remains notable—not just for the fee, but for bringing world-class pedigree back to Europe after a stint in Asia.
The Top 15 Transfers from Asia to Europe
Breaking into the top 15, Odion Ighalo and Manuel Lanzini share the #12 spot, both valued at €12 million. Ighalo joined Manchester United on loan from Shanghai Shenhua in 2020 and impressed with five goals in just 760 minutes. Lanzini moved from Al-Jazira (UAE) to West Ham, initially under the radar, but he went on to make 226 appearances for the London club.
One of the standout names is Hulk, ranked #6, whose €19 million move from Tokyo Verdy to Porto helped launch his European success. Known for his explosive power and fierce long-range shots, Hulk became a fan favorite and a top performer in Portugal.
Topping the entire list is Paulinho, whose shocking €40 million move from Guangzhou Evergrande to Barcelona in 2017 set a record. Initially viewed with skepticism, Paulinho exceeded expectations, contributing goals, work rate, and energy to the Spanish giants before returning to China the following year.
Final Thoughts
These 30 moves illustrate the growing influence of Asian football in shaping the global transfer landscape. From career restarts to historic milestones, these transfers underscore both the financial muscle of Asian clubs and the enduring appeal of Europe’s elite competitions. Whether it’s future stars or seasoned veterans, the pipeline between Asia and Europe is only getting stronger.
