The 2026-27 Premier League season is set to begin this weekend, and with all 20 clubs adding new players to their squads, wage bills will once again be a talking point among those interested in how football finances impact on-field performances.
With Saudi Pro League and Major League Soccer clubs offering extortionate deals to different players across the world, have Premier League clubs been forced to up the ante this summer? Let's take a look.
How much do Premier League players earn in 2026-27? Top earners
Based on the data available to us from accurate and reliable sources, the following players are the Premier League's top earners this season.
- Erling Haaland – £525,000 per week
- Virgil van Dijk – £350,00 per week
- Marcus Rashford – £300,000 per week
- Jack Grealish – £300,000 per week
- Bukayo Saka – £300,00 per week
- Bruno Fernandes – £300,000 per week
Considering his age, ability and marketing appeal, it is no surprise that Erling Haaland is the Premier League's top earner. Virgil van Dijk has also earned his wage following nearly a decade of world-class performances for Liverpool.
The group below the top two is questionable. Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish were both shipped out on loan last season, and if their wages weren't this high, both Man Utd and Man City would have sold them permanently. It is unlikely that both men will be regular starters for their respective clubs this season, which is a problem given how much money they are earning.
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Premier League average wage 2026-27
The average wage for a Premier League player this season is around £60,000 per week, making it easy to understand why most footballers across the world are keen to play in the English top flight. For reference, £60,000 per year is around £20,000 more than the average wage in the UK, so earning this in a week is beyond comprehension for most people.
Surprising PL wages
While every Premier League player is paid handsomely, there are some who are on low wages, at least when compared to other players. The following players should all be knocking on the door for a new contract in the near future:
- Carlos Baleba – £12,500 per week
- Josh King – £20,000 per week
- Adam Wharton – £35,000 per week
- Jacob Murphy – £35,000 per week
- Jeremy Doku – £50,000 per week