The twenty-first century has seen some incredible transactions that have changed the landscape of football and left an indelible effect on the game. These transfers not only changed the way clubs approached the transfer market, but they also changed the path of football history. From superstar signings to game-changing deals, here are the top ten transfers of the twenty-first century that have generated headlines across the world.
Topping the list is Cristiano Ronaldo's €94 million move to Real Madrid in 2009. This deal broke records and brought one of football's greatest players to the Spanish city, where Ronaldo went on to extraordinary success.
The first transfer for Ronaldo was to Manchester United in 2002 for €19 million. The youthful PortugueseLuka Modric's €35 million move to Real Madrid in 2012 bolstered the Los Blancos midfield, as the Croatian maestro's superb vision and passing boosted the team's play.
Ronaldinho's €32 million transfer to Barcelona in 2003 altered the Catalan club's fortunes, bringing flair, entertainment, and delight to the Camp Nou crowd.
Karim Benzema's €35 million move to Real Madrid in 2009 has been critical to the team's success, as the French striker's goal-scoring ability and link-up play have made him a pivotal figure for the club.
Neymar's €88 million transfer to Barcelona in 2013 was a statement of purpose, as the Brazilian forward created a lethal attacking combination alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, driving Barcelona to several titles. Read more.
Last year, when one of the main women's championships was taking place, Zambia attacker Barbra Banda was told she was not fit to compete in di Women Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon).
Di July 2022 competition is crucial because na im dem dey take qualify for di World Cup, which Zambia has never reached, and no be simply for say di Copper Queens bin consider am as anoda opportunity to capture di trophy.
But, just one day before the Morocco finals, without any illness or anything, dem tell Banda she can't compete because of gender qualification - a rationale she can't fathom.
"E bin dey very difficult," the 23-year-old striker tells BBC Sport Africa.
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