The biggest release-clauses in Europe have been released, and – unsurprisingly – Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi lead the way.
Interestingly, La Liga almost entirely dominate the top 10 – and respect must be shown towards Spain’s top flight for creating the notion that their key players are untouchable.
Take a look at the biggest buy-out clauses in Europe…
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10. Koke – Atletico Madrid
£41.8m
The Spain midfielder has been key to Diego Simeone’s side, and having sold a number of stars, including Diego Costa, Atleti will surely want to avoid having to cash in on the finest talent, such as Koke.
9. Ryan Gauld – Sporting Lisbon
£41.8m
At just 19, we can only hope that the youngster’s development isn’t spoiled by a big-money transfer too early in his career.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Gauld revealed, convinced the midfielder to snub Old Trafford and join the Portuguese outfit.
8. Aymeric Laporte – Athletic Bilbao
£50m
The 21-year-old was heavily linked with Manchester United in the winter window, and it may have been such attention that forced the Lions to offer an improved deal to the youngster.
7. Gareth Bale – Real Madrid
£75m
It’s actually surprising that this figure isn’t higher for the world’s most expensive player.
6. Jordi Alba – Barcelona
£104.5m
Arguably the finest left-back in Europe with his blistering pace and attacking threat a key aspect of his game.
5. Sergio Ramos – Real Madrid
£125m
The Spain centre-back looks to remains key to Los Blancos, and it’s little wonder that Manchester United’s bids continue to be rebuffed by the La Liga BBVA giants.
4. Neymar – Barcelona
£132.4m
At 23-years-old, his ability is frightening, and we wouldn’t be surprised if Barca table an improved contract if his form continues.
3. Andres Iniesta – Barcelona
£139.4m
With La Liga legends Xavi Hernandez and Iker Casillas having left Spain this summer, Iniesta too could be nearing the end of his Barca career; however, the playmaker doesn’t seem ready to turn his back on the Camp Nou just yet.
2. Lionel Messi – Barcelona
£174.2m
There would surely be plenty of clubs willing to set this amount aside to lure the Argentina superstar away from Barca.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – Real Madrid
£697.6m
With 225 goals in six seasons so far in his Los Blancos career – including 61 last season – new manager Rafael Benitez certainly won’t be planning for life without the Portugal superstar.
