Premier League's Highest Taxpayers: Top 10 Players Contribute Over £100 Million to UK Treasury
While Premier League footballers are known for their astronomical salaries, they're also among the United Kingdom's most significant tax contributors. The league's highest earners collectively paid more than £100 million to the UK Treasury in the past year.
Between income tax rates reaching 45%, corporation tax, and dividend taxes for those operating through companies, these athletes are making substantial contributions to public coffers. The Sunday Times analyzed the figures, revealing some remarkable numbers.
Here's a breakdown of the 10 biggest taxpayers in England's premier football division.
Numbers 10 Through 6
Arsenal's Kai Havertz ranks 10th with £7.8 million in taxes paid. Just edging him out is teammate Gabriel Jesus at £7.9 million. Jesus's journey from painting street curbs in Brazil ahead of the 2014 World Cup to supplement his income to Premier League stardom is truly remarkable.
Manchester City's Omar Marmoush contributed £8.8 million to the tax authorities, reflecting the substantial signing bonus City reportedly provided to secure his services from Eintracht Frankfurt during the winter transfer window. His on-field output hasn't quite justified that investment yet, something keen football observers and bettors have certainly noticed.
Bernardo Silva (£9 million) and Bruno Fernandes (£9 million) occupy the middle positions. Fernandes could theoretically eliminate his UK tax burden by relocating to Saudi Arabia, where income tax doesn't exist. However, he'd need to remain outside Britain for more than 12 months for the tax exemption to take effect.
Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk paid £9.7 million following a contract extension that established him as the planet's best-compensated defender. It's quite the transformation for someone who once earned €3 per hour washing dishes in the Netherlands.
The Elite Contributors
Raheem Sterling ranks fourth with £9.8 million paid, though this figure will decline significantly in the coming year. After terminating his Chelsea contract, he's now earning less than one-third of his previous £325,000-per-week wages.
Casemiro contributed £10.9 million, but his appearance on this list is likely temporary. The Manchester United midfielder is expected to depart this summer, with potential destinations including Saudi Arabia or Major League Soccer, both offering more advantageous tax conditions.
Mohamed Salah occupies second place with £14.5 million in taxes. His performance has declined this campaign compared to previous seasons, with even Tottenham's Richarlison recording more combined goals and assists. His mid-season disagreement with manager Arne Slot has intensified speculation about a potential Saudi Pro League transfer.
Taking the top spot is Erling Haaland at £16.9 million. His new contract extends through 2034 with a salary to match its extraordinary length. The Norwegian striker appeared remarkably casual about the deal, describing signing it as feeling "really normal." When you're scoring at Haaland's rate, substantial tax bills are simply the cost of doing business.