Man Utd and Premier League clubs sent warning by UEFA after financial results revealed

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Manchester United have been the Premier League’s biggest spenders in the past five years. United’s transfer dealings cost a staggering £692million, according to a new UEFA report which European football’s governing body says presents a ’risk’ to the game.

Chelsea were the next biggest net spenders with an outlay of £658m with Arsenal in third place after shelling out £589m. UEFA insist their Squad Cost Ratio is more important than ever and has a strict rule that only 70 per cent of turnover can be spent on player costs while the Premier League ’s system allows up to 85 per cent.

The European Club Finance and Investment Landscape report details that English football is in a different league financially to the rest of Europe. Andrea Traverso, UEFA’s executive director of financial sustainability and research, said: “European football is growing but not without risk.

“This is why UEFA’s role is even more important to protect the game and shows the importance of the Squad Cost Ratio system. The main difference is the objective. UEFA’s objective is sustainability. The Premier League’s objective is competitiveness.”

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Meanwhile, Chelsea were the biggest gross spenders as they shelled out £1.94billion in the five years which was a staggering 77 per cent higher than the second biggest, Manchester City £1.2b. Chelsea also incurred t he highest pre-tax loss in the history of English football during the 2024-25 season.

The Blues booked an eye-watering pre-tax deficit of €407million (£342m). That’ only beaten by Barcelona ’s €555m (£483m) loss in the 2020-21 season.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin chose to highlight the growth of European football and increasing investment. " This edition of the UEFA European Club Finance and Investment Landscape report is quite special," Ceferin said.

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"Not only does it give a clear picture of European club football finances in 2026, but it also takes a step back to reflect on how the game has developed over the last ten years. What the report shows is encouraging.

"After a decade that included one of the toughest periods our sport and society have faced, European football has come through in a strong position. Despite the noise, despite the pressure, despite the doubts of some, European football’s future remains bright.

"The decade ahead will bring new pressures, but also real opportunities. With good insights, such as those provided by this report, European football can prepare more effectively - and work together to support a healthy, successful future."

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