Documents Relating To Martial’s Transfer Deal with Man United Have Been Leaked

Last month we wrote about Football Leaks, the anonymously authored blog that vowed to pull back the curtain on football’s financial and legal underpinnings. The blog recently dropped some documents that shed light on one of the most talked-about transfers of last summer.

Near the end of the summer transfer window, Manchester United signed then-19 year old forward Anthony Martial from Monaco. The transfer fee was reported to be in the neighborhood of €50 million with the potential to rise to as much as €70 million. Thanks to Football Leaks, we can now take a look at precise figures.

The blog focuses primarily on exposing football’s shady dealings, yet there’s nothing particularly suspicious in the Martial deal. The takeaway is more wonkish than scandalous. Still, there’s something to be said for having actual numbers in front of you.

Some highlights of the deal:

– Manchester United had to pay Monaco €20 million within three business days of Martial’s successful registry with the Premier League and the Football Association.

– Another €30 million is due on July 1st of this year.

– United must pay an additional €10 million if and when Martial makes 25 first team appearances in competitive games for the club.

– Another €10 million if Martial earns 25 caps for the French national team.

– Another €10 million is he’s ever nominated for a Ballon d’Or while under contract with Manchester United.

The bonuses are what make the deal interesting. Martial will almost definitely meet the first two conditions, and the third isn’t outside the realm of possibility. With such relatively doable conditions to trigger bonuses, it’s possible that Martial’s transfer to United could end up being one of the most expensive deals in football history.

So, you know, no pressure or anything.