Ligue 1 has long been a breeding ground for some of the most exciting talents in European football. The 2024/2025 season is no different, with a slew of high-caliber defenders plying their trade in France.
In this article, Soccernet.football takes a look at the ten most valuable defenders in the premier division and how they contribute to their respective teams.
10. Leonardo Beraldo (Olympique Marseille) – €20m
The young Brazilian center-back has quickly become a key figure in Les Dogues’ defense. At just 21, he displays a level of maturity beyond his years, combining strong tackling with excellent positional awareness. Beraldo’s composure under pressure and his knack for initiating attacks from the back make him a highly valuable asset for De Zerbi’s side.
9. Vanderson (Monaco) – €20m
Monaco’s versatile right-back is known for his offensive prowess and defensive reliability. His work rate and stamina allow him to cover the entire flank, making him an invaluable part of the team’s transition from defense to attack. Vanderson’s performances have attracted interest from top clubs across Europe, underscoring his rising stock in the football world.
8. Kevin Danso (RC Lens) – €25m
The Austrian center-back has been a rock at the heart of RC Lens’ defense. Danso’s no-nonsense defending style, coupled with his ability to play out from the back, makes him a complete defender. His contributions were pivotal in Lens securing a Champions League spot, and his value continues to rise as he establishes himself as one of Ligue 1’s top defenders.
7. Lucas Beraldo (Paris Saint-Germain) – €30m
The Brazilian prodigy has made a swift impact at Paris Saint-Germain. Known for his versatility, Beraldo can operate both as a center-back and a left-back, offering PSG tactical flexibility. His excellent ball-playing skills, combined with his defensive acumen, have seen him slot seamlessly into PSG’s backline. Beraldo’s calmness under pressure and his ability to break lines with his passing make him a key component in PSG’s quest for European glory.
6. Milan Skriniar (Paris Saint-Germain) – €30m
The Dutch international joined PSG from Inter Milan, adding his wealth of experience to the Parisian defense. Skriniar is renowned for his strong tackling, aerial dominance, and leadership qualities. His ability to marshal the defense and organize the backline will be invaluable for PSG, especially in high-pressure situations. Skriniar’s presence brings a much-needed solidity to PSG’s defense, making him one of the most reliable defenders in Ligue 1.
5. William Pacho (Paris Saint-Germain) – €35m
The Ecuadorian recently joined Les Parisiens from Bundesliga side Eintrancht Frankfurt this summer. Pacho’s athleticism, combined with his strong defensive instincts, makes him a formidable opponent for any attacker. His ability to anticipate danger and make crucial tackles make him a fantastic addition to Luis Enrique’s side.
4. Lucas Hernandez (Paris Saint-Germain) – €40m
The French international is a key figure in PSG’s defense. His versatility, which allows him to play both as a center-back and a left-back, has been crucial for PSG. Hernandez is known for his aggressive defending, quick recovery pace, and ability to contribute offensively. His experience at the highest level, including winning the World Cup with France makes him a leader in the PSG squad.
3. Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain) – €50m
The Brazilian has been a pillar of PSG’s defense for several years. His leadership, consistency, and defensive intelligence have made him one of the best center-backs in the world. Marquinhos is not only an excellent defender but also contributes significantly to PSG’s build-up play with his precise passing and ability to break the opposition’s lines. His value to PSG goes beyond his defensive duties as he is a symbol of the club’s sucess and a true leader on the pitch.
2. Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain) – €55m
The Portuguese left-back has rapidly become one of the most exciting young talents in European football. His pace, dribbling, and crossing ability make him a constant threat down the left flank. Mendes’ attacking contributions, combined with his defensive responsibilities make him a key player for PSG.
1. Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain) – €60m
Top of our list is Hakimi, the Moroccan right-back who has redefined the role of a modern full-back. Hakimi’s pace, technical ability and eye for goal make him one of the most dangerous defenders in world football. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has been a game-changer for PSG. Hakimi’s performances in Ligue 1 and the Champions League have made him indispensable to Enrique’s side.