Longest Deals in Europe have transformed the landscape of modern football, reflecting a strategic shift in contract management. The world of football has seen a dramatic evolution in contract strategies. Clubs in Europe’s top five leagues are increasingly signing players to long-term deals, balancing financial fair play regulations with the need to secure top talent. These contracts not only reward loyalty but also protect clubs’ investments in high-value players. From Chelsea’s bold commitments to Athletic Bilbao’s homegrown stars, the landscape of long-term deals in Europe has never been more fascinating. Here, we list the 10 longest deals in Europe as of summer 2025, ranked by legacy, impact, and potential influence for the coming years.
10. Joao Felix
- Chelsea – Contract Until June 2031
João Félix joined Al-Nassr in summer 2025 on a seven-year deal until June 2031, underlining the Saudi club’s belief in his talent and long-term potential. The €120 million transfer highlights Al-Nassr’s ambition to secure a marquee player capable of making a major impact in both domestic and continental competitions. At just 24 years old, Félix is expected to be a key figure in the team’s attacking setup, combining creativity, pace, and finishing ability.
Over the course of this seven-year deal, one of the Longest Deals in Europe, Al-Nassr ensures that Félix has the time to fully integrate into the squad, develop leadership qualities, and consistently perform at a high level. His technical skill set, vision, and versatility make him ideal for modern tactical systems. By locking him into a long-term contract, the club protects their significant investment while providing stability in a crucial attacking role. This deal exemplifies strategic planning in global football and stands out as one of the most notable Longest Deals in Europe in recent years.
9. Filip Jorgensen
- Chelsea – Contract Until June 2031
Filip Jorgensen, a promising goalkeeper from Denmark, joined Chelsea with a seven-year deal until June 2031, underlining the club’s belief in his long-term potential between the sticks. The €24.5 million transfer highlights Chelsea’s commitment to securing young talent capable of competing at the highest levels. At just 22 years old, Jorgensen is seen as a future leader in the goalkeeping department. Goalkeepers often peak later than outfield players, making such long-term contracts practical.
Over the course of this seven-year deal, one of the Longest Deals in Europe, Chelsea ensures he has the time to develop, learn under experienced goalkeepers, and gradually become the club’s first choice. His agility, shot-stopping, and distribution skills make him ideal for modern football’s tactical demands. By locking him into a long-term deal, Chelsea protects their investment and ensures continuity in a critical position, reinforcing their strategic planning in Europe’s elite competitions and highlighting one of the most significant Longest Deals in Europe in recent times.
8. Maximilian Kilman
- West Ham – Contract Until June 2031
Maximilian Kilman’s seven-year contract with West Ham highlights the club’s commitment to maintaining defensive stability. Valued at €47.5 million, the 27-year-old center-back combines physicality with tactical awareness. Over the course of this seven-year deal, one of the longest deals in Europe, West Ham aims to create a core squad capable of consistent Premier League performance while developing younger talents around established players like Kilman. His experience, aerial dominance, and reading of the game make him a crucial defensive figure.
Long-term contracts for players in their late 20s are rare, but Kilman’s deal ensures leadership continuity and minimizes disruption from potential transfers. West Ham’s strategy illustrates the balance between financial prudence and securing defensive talent to sustain competitiveness over multiple seasons. Kilman’s reliability and commitment are key reasons he earned a contract of this magnitude, reflecting trust from the club’s management in his ability to anchor the backline for years.
7. Aaron Wan-Bissaka
- West Ham – Contract Until June 2031
Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s move to West Ham on a seven-year deal shows the club’s focus on defensive consistency and tactical reliability. Valued at €17.6 million, the England international is renowned for his tackling, stamina, and ability to cover wide areas. Over the course of this seven-year contract, one of the longest deals in Europe, West Ham ensures they have a dependable right-back capable of contributing to both defensive stability and transitional play.
Long-term deals like Wan-Bissaka’s allow clubs to retain top domestic talent while providing players with security to excel. Over the next seven years, he will be a key figure in mentoring emerging full-backs and maintaining West Ham’s defensive identity. The contract reflects trust in his durability, professionalism, and potential to remain a top performer in the Premier League. By committing to a long-term plan, West Ham strengthens squad cohesion and creates a foundation for sustained growth and success.
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6. Benat Prados
- Athletic Bilbao – Contract Until June 2031
Benat Prados’ seven-year contract with Athletic Bilbao highlights the club’s tradition of loyalty to local talents. Valued at €5 million, the 23-year-old midfielder represents Bilbao’s philosophy of nurturing young players from the Basque region. Over the course of this seven-year deal, one of the longest deals in Europe, his vision, passing range, and ability to dictate tempo are crucial for the team’s tactical setup. Long-term contracts at Athletic Bilbao ensure continuity and stability while reinforcing the club’s identity.
Prados’ deal provides him with time to mature, make an impact in La Liga, and potentially achieve European success with Bilbao. By securing a seven-year contract, Athletic demonstrates confidence in his development and ensures he remains part of the club’s strategic core. Prados’ long-term presence offers fans hope for continuity in midfield creativity and leadership on the pitch.
5. Oihan Sancet
- Athletic Bilbao – Contract Until June 2032
Oihan Sancet’s eight-year contract at Athletic Bilbao represents one of the club’s most ambitious long-term investments. Valued at €18 million, the attacking midfielder has shown exceptional creativity, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability since his debut. Over the course of this eight-year deal, one of the longest deals in Europe, Bilbao’s commitment ensures Sancet remains a central figure in shaping the team’s attacking play.
Long-term security allows him to flourish, build synergy with teammates, and become a potential captain. Sancet’s contract until 2032 aligns with the club’s philosophy of nurturing Basque talent while remaining competitive in La Liga. His performances will be key to Bilbao’s aspirations in domestic and European competitions. By investing in Sancet for the long term, Athletic solidifies their attacking future and ensures stability around one of their most dynamic midfielders.
4. Enzo Fernandez
- Chelsea – Contract Until June 2032
Chelsea’s record signing, Enzo Fernandez, secured an eight-year deal valued at €121 million. The midfield maestro has impressed with composure, passing range, and ability to control tempo. Chelsea’s strategy to lock him in until 2032 provides long-term stability and allows the club to build a team around his talent. Fernandez has already contributed decisively in major competitions and represents a generation of modern midfielders capable of blending creativity with defensive discipline. Long-term contracts for players of his caliber reflect both financial and sporting vision.
Over the next eight years, Chelsea anticipates Fernandez leading the midfield, mentoring younger talents, and driving their ambitions in the Premier League and UEFA competitions. His deal is among the most significant long-term contracts in Europe, showcasing the club’s commitment to securing top talent for the foreseeable future.
3. Daniel Vivian
- Athletic Bilbao – Contract Until June 2032
Daniel Vivian, a 25-year-old center-back, signed an eight-year contract with Athletic Bilbao, emphasizing the club’s commitment to defensive continuity. Valued at €12 million, Vivian combines positional intelligence, physical strength, and leadership on the pitch. This eight-year deal, one of the longest deals in Europe, ensures Bilbao’s long-term plan for a solid defensive spine, which is essential for consistent league performance.
By keeping key players like Vivian, Prados, and Sancet, Bilbao maintains squad cohesion and reduces the risk of losing talent to other clubs. His contract allows him to develop further while becoming a core figure in La Liga. Athletic’s approach demonstrates strategic planning, loyalty to local players, and the importance of securing long-term assets to remain competitive in Europe’s top leagues.
2. Nicolas Jackson
- Chelsea – Contract Until June 2033
Nicolas Jackson’s nine-year contract at Chelsea highlights the club’s confidence in his potential as a prolific forward. Valued at €30 million, the Senegalese striker has already shown promise with goal contributions and versatility in attack. Over the course of this nine-year deal, one of the longest deals in Europe, Chelsea can nurture Jackson without the pressure of transfer speculation. Jackson can develop, establish himself as a key goal scorer, and adapt to the rigorous challenges of the Premier League.
By securing him on such a long-term contract, Chelsea ensures squad stability while creating a framework to maximize his growth and impact. The deal reflects strategic planning, combining patience, investment in youth, and the hope of cultivating a long-term superstar capable of leading Chelsea to domestic and European glory. This contract perfectly illustrates how long-term commitments can benefit both player and club.
1. Cole Palmer
- Chelsea – Contract Until June 2033
Cole Palmer tops the list with a nine-year deal at Chelsea, reflecting his immense potential and the club’s long-term vision. Valued at €45 million, Palmer has shown exceptional attacking ability, creativity, and versatility. His long-term contract ensures Chelsea can build a team around him for nearly a decade, providing both continuity and leadership.
Over nine years, Palmer is expected to become a cornerstone of the squad, contributing goals, assists, and key performances in high-pressure matches. This deal is one of the Longest Deals in Europe, demonstrating a modern approach to talent management that balances financial risk with potential reward. Palmer’s contract represents a strategic commitment to secure Europe’s top young talent for the long term and underscores Chelsea’s ambition to maintain dominance in domestic and European football.
| Player | Club | Summer 2025 Status (Years Leaving Club) | Transfer Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joao Felix | Chelsea | 7 years | €20.00m |
| Filip Jorgensen | Chelsea | 7 years | €18.00m |
| Maximilian Kilman | West Ham | 7 years | €25.00m |
| Aaron Wan-Bissaka | West Ham | 7 years | €24.00m |
| Benat Prados | Athletic Bilbao | 7 years | €18.00m |
| Oihan Sancet | Athletic Bilbao | 8 years | €60.00m |
| Enzo Fernandez | Chelsea | 8 years | €75.00m |
| Daniel Vivian | Athletic Bilbao | 8 years | €40.00m |
| Nicolas Jackson | Chelsea | 9 years | €50.00m |
| Cole Palmer | Chelsea | 9 years | €47.00m |
FAQs :Longest Deals in Europe
Q1: Why are Longest Deals in Europe becoming more common?
Long-term contracts provide financial stability for clubs, protect investments in top players, and reward loyalty. They also allow clubs to spread salaries and bonuses over multiple years, aligning with financial fair play rules.
Q2: Are long-term contracts risky for clubs?
Yes, if a player underperforms or suffers injuries, clubs are committed to high wages for many years. However, careful scouting and management mitigate these risks.
Q3: Which clubs are most active in offering Longest Deals in Europe?
Chelsea is leading in Europe with multiple long-term contracts, while Athletic Bilbao focuses on securing local talent for extended periods.
Q4: How do long-term contracts benefit players?
Players gain job security, stability, and the opportunity to grow within a club without transfer uncertainty. It also allows them to focus on performance and career development.
Q5: Will these Longest Deals in Europe affect transfer markets?
Yes, securing top talent on long-term deals reduces immediate transfer activity but increases player value for future negotiations.
Q6: Why do clubs offer some of the longest deals in Europe?
Clubs use the Longest Deals in Europe to secure key players, provide stability, and manage financial fair play efficiently.