De Jong, Van Dijk and the top 10 highest-paid Dutch players in Europe

Dutch football has produced some of the biggest talents to ever grace the beautiful game. Presently, stars like Frenkie de Jong, Virgil van Dijk and Matthijs de Ligt fly the flag of their nation at the biggest clubs in europe. 

In this article, Soccernet.football focuses its lens on the world of elite Dutch players, exploring the top 10 highest-paid stars making their marks across Europe.

10. Teun Koopmeiners (€110,962-per-week)

The 26 year old Dutch professional is currently on the books at Serie A giants Juventus. Koopmeiners signed a five-year contract with the Bianconeri after consistently impressing at Atalanta and he now sits among the Netherlands’ top earners as a result.

9. Donyell Malen (€115,385-per-week) 

The Borussia Dortmund winger occupies the ninth spot on our list of highest Dutch football earners. Malen joined from PSV in the summer of 2021 and has since earned his spot at Signal Iduna Park.

8. Xavi Simons (€115,385-per-week) 

Simons’ paycheck reflects his status as one of the brightest young talents in European football. Currently on loan at RB Leipzig, the Dutchman has established himself as a key player for the Bundesliga side. His performances suggest that he could soon move into an even more lucrative bracket as his career progresses..

7. Cody Gakpo (£120,000-per-week)

Life in the Premier League has not really been smooth sailing for the former PSV forward. Although Gakpo has become an integral part of Liverpool’s attacking setup, he is yet to replicate the ruthless goal-scoring form he displayed at PSV for the Reds. 

6. Stefan de Vrij (€135,385-per-week)

As one of the most experienced players on this list, De Vrij has been a crucial pillar of Inter Milan’s defense for several seasons. Despite his reduced involvement this season, the Dutchman remains a key figure in Serie A and continues to bring stability and leadership to the Nerazzurri.

5. Ryan Gravenberch (£150,000-per-week)

In Gravenberch, the Reds can comfortably boast of a player who gives his all while on the pitch of play. The central midfielder has played a pivotal role in the early days of new Liverpool boss Arne Slot as they currently lead the way in the Premier League. Gravenberch is certainly earning every penny on his paycheck at the moment.

4. Nathan Ake (£160,000-per-week) 

Ake has enjoyed a remarkable rise under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. His ability to play as both a center-back and left-back made him indispensable for City’s treble-winning team. Ake has found game time hard to come by this season, but judging by City’s current struggles, it may not be long before the Dutchman can fight his way back into the thick of things.

3. Matthijs de Ligt (£195,000-per-week)

Having joined Manchester United from Bayern Munich, De Ligt has established himself at the heart of United’s backline.The Dutchman is one of the most highly regarded defenders in Europe and his current wages reflect that status. He has played 11 games totalling 761 minutes with one Premier league goal to his name. 

2. Virgil Van Dijk (£220,000-per-week)

Van Dijk, widely regarded as one of the best defenders of his generation, earns €300,000 per week at Liverpool. As the captain of both his club and country, Van Dijk’s leadership and defensive acumen are unmatched. Despite advancing age, the towering defender’s influence remains undiminished.

1. Frenkie De Jong (₤365,385-per-week)

Topping the list is Barcelona’s midfield maestro De Jong whose career at the Catalan club has been somewhat underwhelming many would argue. On his day, the former Ajax man is the epitome of midfield control, orchestrating play with his vision, technical ability and calmness under pressure. Despite persistent transfer rumors in recent years, De Jong remains committed to Barcelona.