The Bundesliga may have operated in the shadow of the Premier League’s record spending, but several German clubs still made major investments this summer. Here are the five most expensive incoming transfers.
The Bundesliga’s summer transfer window was not defined by extravagant spending, but the biggest clubs still opened their wallets for players they believe can make an immediate difference.
Bayern Munich led the way with two €50 million additions, while Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig also made significant investments in younger talent. Based on reported transfer fees, these are the five most expensive incoming transfers to the Bundesliga this summer.
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Maxime Estève – Burnley to RB Leipzig | €25m
RB Leipzig strengthened their defence with the signing of Maxime Estève from Burnley for around €25 million.
The French centre-back arrives in Germany after establishing himself in English football and gives Leipzig another physical and versatile option at the back.
Welcome to Leipzig, Maxime Estève! 🔴⚪
The French centre-back joins RBL from Burnley on a deal until 2031 🤝 pic.twitter.com/SoBq74gzgM
— RB Leipzig English (@RBLeipzig_EN) July 17, 2026
At 24, Estève still has room to develop, but the fee shows Leipzig view him as more than simply squad depth. With the club back in the Champions League, his experience and defensive qualities could prove valuable.
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Dzenan Pejcinovic – Wolfsburg to Stuttgart | €25m
VfB Stuttgart invested €25 million to bring Dzenan Pejcinovic across from Wolfsburg.
The young striker represents a significant investment in Stuttgart’s attacking future after the club enjoyed another strong campaign last season.
Pejcinovic has already shown considerable promise in Germany and now has the opportunity to take another step forward at a Stuttgart side competing in the Champions League.
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Konstantinos Karetsas – Genk to Borussia Dortmund | €30m
Borussia Dortmund continued their tradition of investing in exciting young talent by signing Konstantinos Karetsas from Genk for €30 million.
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder arrives with a reputation as one of Europe’s most intriguing teenage prospects. His creativity and technical ability made him stand out in Belgium, and Dortmund believe he can develop into a major player.
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Nathaniel Brown – Eintracht Frankfurt to Bayern Munich | €50m
Bayern Munich spent €50 million to sign Nathaniel Brown from Eintracht Frankfurt, making the defender one of the most expensive arrivals in the Bundesliga this summer.
Brown impressed during his time at Frankfurt and has now earned a move to the defending German champions.
His versatility and athleticism make him an attractive option for Bayern, who are looking to maintain their dominance domestically while competing on multiple fronts.
The €50m price tag reflects the club’s belief that Brown can become an important part of their defence for years to come.
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Ismael Saibari – PSV Eindhoven to Bayern Munich | €50m
Bayern’s other €50 million signing takes the top spot, with Ismael Saibari arriving from PSV Eindhoven.
The Moroccan midfielder comes to Munich after establishing himself as an important player at PSV and impressing on the international stage. Bayern see him as a player capable of adding energy, creativity and versatility to their midfield.
Saibari has already made an encouraging impression, with his performances earning praise during the early stages of the season.
At €50 million, Bayern have made a substantial investment, but the signing could prove particularly important as Vincent Kompany looks to build a squad capable of competing for another Bundesliga title and making a deeper run in Europe..
