Premier League's Top Earners Shell Out Over £100 Million in Taxes

While Premier League footballers earn eye-watering salaries, they're also contributing substantially to the UK Treasury. The league's top earners collectively paid more than £100 million in taxes during the past year.

Between income tax rates reaching 45%, corporation tax, dividend tax, and other levies for players who've incorporated themselves, these athletes are significant contributors to Britain's coffers. The Sunday Times recently analyzed the figures, revealing some remarkable numbers.

Here's a breakdown of the ten biggest taxpayers in England's premier football division.

The Supporting Cast

Rounding out the list at number 10 is Arsenal's Kai Havertz, who contributed £7.8 million. His Arsenal colleague Gabriel Jesus edges slightly ahead with £7.9 million. It's quite the journey for Jesus, who once painted street curbs in Brazil ahead of the 2014 World Cup to make extra cash.

Manchester City's Omar Marmoush paid £8.8 million in taxes, likely reflecting the substantial signing bonus City provided to secure his services from Eintracht Frankfurt during the January transfer window. His on-field contributions haven't quite justified that investment yet, as City supporters and bettors have observed.

Bernardo Silva (£9 million) and Bruno Fernandes (£9 million) occupy the middle positions. Fernandes could theoretically eliminate his UK tax obligations by relocating to Saudi Arabia, which has no income tax. However, he'd need to remain outside Britain for more than 12 months to qualify for that benefit.

Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk contributed £9.7 million following a contract extension that established him as the planet's highest-paid defender. It's a remarkable transformation for someone who once washed dishes in the Netherlands for €3 hourly.

The Heavy Hitters

Raheem Sterling ranks fourth with £9.8 million, although that figure is set to plummet next year. After terminating his Chelsea contract, he's now earning less than one-third of his previous £325,000-per-week wages.

Casemiro paid £10.9 million, but his appearance on this ranking is nearing its end. The Manchester United midfielder is departing this summer, with potential destinations including Saudi Arabia or Major League Soccer, both offering more advantageous tax scenarios.

Mohamed Salah holds second place with £14.5 million in tax payments. His performance has declined this season compared to previous campaigns, with even Tottenham's Richarlison posting superior goal and assist numbers. That midseason disagreement with manager Arne Slot has intensified speculation about a Saudi Pro League transfer.

Taking the top spot? Erling Haaland at £16.9 million. His new contract extends through 2034 and includes a salary to match its unprecedented length. The Norwegian striker appeared unperturbed by the massive commitment, describing it as feeling "really normal" to sign the extension. When you're scoring at Haaland's rate, those hefty tax bills are simply the cost of doing business.