Since its start, the Indian Super League (ISL) has undergone major changes, evolving into a vibrant football platform in India. Teams have worked to boost the league’s competitiveness while investing heavily to attract top players. Recently, large transfer fees have highlighted the league’s increasing financial strength and ambition.
We’ll explore some of the most notable and costly transfers in ISL’s history.
5. Apuia Ralte – ₹2 Cr from NorthEast United to Mumbai City FC
Apuia’s lively playing style and outstanding ability to win the ball have earned him recognition. His impressive performances with NorthEast United not only delighted fans but also drew the attention of the national team coach, Igor Stimac.
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4. Anwar Ali – ₹2.5 Cr from Delhi FC to East Bengal
After a lot of debate and media buzz, East Bengal secured their player in the summer of 2024. Anwar Ali made the move to East Bengal from I-League Delhi FC, with the transfer costing Rs 2.5 crores. He signed a five-year contract with his new team.
3. Akash Mishra – ₹3 Cr from Hyderabad FC to Mumbai City FC
Akash Mishra, a talented young left-back, is being hailed as a future star of Indian football. Born in Uttar Pradesh, this defender quickly made a name for himself at Hyderabad FC with his impressive defensive skills and versatility. His outstanding performances with the Nizams attracted interest from various clubs.
After 62 matches, Mumbai City FC, owned by the City Football Group, transferred him in 2023 for approximately ₹3 crores.
2. Anirudh Thapa – ₹3 Cr. from Chennaiyin FC to Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Anirudh Thapa’s steady performances over seven seasons with Chennaiyin FC established him as one of the top midfielders in Indian football. His reputation, built through his national team experience and his time in the ISL, made him a well-known figure among football fans in India.
In 2023, Mohun Bagan Super Giant acquired him for about ₹3 crores after he had played 103 matches for Chennaiyin FC. The Kolkata-based club, supported by the RP Sanjiv Goenka Group, aimed to build a star-studded team reminiscent of Real Madrid’s famous “Galacticos” from 2003. Thapa played a key role in their grand plan, which featured several high-profile signings that season.
1. Jeakson Singh – ₹3.3 Cr from Kerala Blasters to East Bengal
Jeakson Singh first gained widespread attention with his historic goal in the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup. Building on that success, he signed with Kerala Blasters in 2018. Where he became a key player over the next six seasons and a crucial member of the Indian national team during this time.
The midfielder from Manipur appeared in 76 games for Kerala Blasters. In the summer of 2024, after extensive negotiations and competition among several clubs, East Bengal secured Jeakson’s services for approximately ₹3.3 crores. Marking the highest transfer fee ever paid for an Indian player in the ISL.
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