According to a report by The Mirror on Friday, October 16, 2026, Manchester United have recorded the biggest decline in transfer market value among European clubs over the past five years, with their losses estimated at £344 million.

The assessment, based on figures from the CIES Football Observatory, examined clubs’ transfer activity over a five-year period. It accounted for losses incurred when players were sold and the depreciation in market value of footballers who remain at their respective clubs.

Manchester United’s reported decline consists of approximately £158 million in losses from players sold and a further £186 million in reduced market value among members of the current squad.

Brazilian winger Antony is one of the most prominent examples of the club’s expensive recruitment decisions. United reportedly paid £76.5 million to sign the former Ajax star but eventually sold him for around £21 million, resulting in a loss of more than £55 million.

Midfielder Mason Mount and goalkeeper Andre Onana have also contributed to the club’s disappointing figures, with both players experiencing declines in their estimated transfer market values.

The findings highlight the financial challenges United have faced in the transfer market, particularly when expensive signings fail to maintain their value or deliver the expected returns.

In contrast, Eintracht Frankfurt emerged as the leading club for transfer value growth, recording an estimated increase of £448 million over the same period.

Real Madrid followed closely with a reported gain of £447 million, while Paris Saint-Germain ranked third with approximately £417 million.

The contrasting figures underline the significant differences between European clubs in their ability to recruit players, preserve their market value and build squads that appreciate financially over time.