From Huijsen to Coentrao – Five most expensive defenders in Real Madrid’s history | OneFootball

Real Madrid have always been a club known for spending big, especially when it comes to signing top attackers. But in the club’s long 123-year history, investing huge money on defenders has been quite rare.

That trend changed recently when the club signed Dean Huijsen for a whopping €58 million, making him the most expensive defender Real Madrid has ever brought in.

This transfer marked a new direction for Los Blancos, one where breaking their own rules might be the key to staying ahead.

Let’s take a closer look at the five most expensive defenders Real Madrid has ever signed.

Dean Huijsen – €58 million

On May 17, 2025, Real Madrid decided to pay €58 million to bring Huijsen to the Santiago Bernabeu. At just 20 years old, the young Spanish defender became the costliest defender in club history, surpassing the previous record held by Eder Militao.

The fee is notable not only because of the amount, but also because of what it represents. Until now, Madrid had never spent more than €50 million on a defender.

This deal broke what many believed was an unspoken cap, as Madrid had refused to raise their €40 million offer for Leny Yoro in the previous summer transfer window.

That refusal cost them the player, but with Huijsen, they were ready to go all-in. It is clear they believe the young defender has a bright future.

Eder Militao – €50 million

Eder Militao was once the most expensive defender for Real Madrid. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Before Huijsen’s arrival, Militao held the record for the most expensive defender at Real Madrid. Signed from Porto in 2019, the Brazilian centre-back cost the club €50 million.

Militao has proven to be a strong investment over time. He stepped up when veterans like Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane left, becoming a key part of the team’s defence.

Quick, strong, and reliable, he helped the club win major trophies, including La Liga and the Champions League. However, his recent injury issues have put Real Madrid in grave trouble.

Ferland Mendy – €48 million

Ferland Mendy has divided opinions. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

While not part of the official top five in some rankings, Ferland Mendy’s €48 million move from Lyon in 2019 deserves a mention.

Although the list often recognises only those who reached the €50 million mark, Mendy came close and made his presence felt. He brought pace and balance to the left side of Madrid’s defence and has played a key role in several successful campaigns.

At this point, however, it is said that he continues to face an uncertain future at Real Madrid owing to the possible arrival of Alvaro Carreras, who is expected to cost around €50 million.

Danilo – €31.5 million

Danilo could not live upto the expectations. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

In 2015, Real Madrid paid €31.5 million to sign Danilo from Porto. Expectations were high, but his time in Madrid was mixed.

While he did bring depth to the squad and played in both league and Champions League games, he was often criticised for his inconsistent performances.

Even so, the price tag showed that Real Madrid was willing to invest in full-backs who could offer attacking support as well as defensive cover.

Pepe and Fabio Coentrao – €30 million each

Real Madrid spent big on Pepe. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

Tied at €30 million each are Portuguese defenders Pepe and Fabio Coentrao. Pepe, signed from Porto in 2007, became one of the best centre-backs in the world during his time in Madrid.

Known for his aggressive defending and passion, Pepe helped the team win multiple Champions League titles and was a rock in the backline for over a decade.

Coentrao, on the other hand, joined from Benfica in 2011 and had a career full of ups and downs at the club. Although he showed flashes of quality, injuries and competition limited his role. Still, he was part of some big moments and added depth to the squad.