Championship’s Highest-Paid Players: Top Earners & Salaries Revealed

The 2024-25 Championship season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with several high-profile players earning substantial wages.

As is often the case, clubs relegated from the Premier League continue to boast some of the highest-paid players in the second tier, with Leeds United featuring prominently among them. However, a recent signing currently tops the list of big earners.

Below, we examine the highest earners according to Capology, their salaries, and their roles within their respective clubs.

Kelechi Iheanacho – £75,000 per week

Kelechi Iheanacho leads the way as the Championship’s highest-paid player, earning a staggering £75,000 per week, amounting to £3.9 million annually. The Nigerian forward plays for Middlesbrough and joined on loan ion February 2025. Iheanacho rose to prominence with Manchester City before making a move to Leicester in 2017, before heading to La Liga with Sevilla. Known for his movement, link-up play, and ability to score from various positions, he has been a consistent goal threat at both club and international levels.

Mason Holgate – £70,000 per week

Mason Holgate follows closely behind, earning £70,000 per week, translating to an annual salary of £3.64 million. A commanding centre-back for West Brom, Holgate is known for his leadership, strong tackling, and aerial dominance. Having come through the youth ranks, he has established himself as one of the most reliable defenders in the Championship, on loan from Premier League side Everton. A physically imposing player, Colgate has consistently delivered strong performances and has ambitions of guiding his team towards promotion.

Patrick Bamford – £70,000 per week

Patrick Bamford, another £70,000 per week earner, has had a remarkable career journey, making a name for himself at Leeds United. His annual salary stands at £3.64 million. The English striker, known for his intelligent movement and finishing, was instrumental in Leeds’ promotion to the Premier League in 2020. Despite facing injury setbacks, Bamford remained a key figure for Leeds until this season, when he was linked with moves away. His technical ability, combined with his work rate, makes him a valuable asset in the attacking third. He has represented England at the senior level and continues to push for consistent form in front of goal.

Enzo Le Fée – £67,500

Enzo Le Fée, Sunderland’s midfield maestro, earns £67,500 per week (£3.51 million annually). The French playmaker is celebrated for his vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of games. Having started his career with FC Lorient in Ligue 1, he made a loan move from AS Roma to Sunderland to bring his creativity to the Championship. Le Fée is known for his dribbling skills, set-piece expertise, and knack for unlocking defences. His composure on the ball and playmaking abilities make him one of the most technically gifted midfielders in the division.

Nathaniel Phillips – £65,000

Nathaniel Phillips, commanding £65,000 per week (£3.38 million per year), has brought Premier League experience to Derby County’s defence. The English centre-back rose to prominence at Liverpool, stepping up during their injury crisis in the 2020-21 season. Known for his physicality, aerial prowess, and strong tackling, Phillips has since made a temporary move to the Rams to help keep them in the second tier. His ability to handle pressure situations and clear danger effectively makes him a vital presence at the back.

Junior Firpo – £60,000

Junior Firpo earns £60,000 per week (£3.12 million annually) and has been a key left-back for Leeds United. The Dominican-born Spanish defender started his career at Real Betis before moving to FC Barcelona, where he played alongside some of the world’s best. Since joining Leeds in 2021, he has brought attacking flair from the back, often overlapping and delivering dangerous crosses. Although he initially struggled with consistency, Firpo has developed into a more reliable player, excelling in both the attack and defence. His experience in La Liga has proven valuable in the Championship.

Manor Solomon – £60,000

Manor Solomon, earning £60,000 per week (£3.12 million annually), is a dynamic winger for Leeds United, on loan from Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur. The Israeli international made a name for himself at Shakhtar Donetsk before moving to England. Solomon’s dribbling ability, quick acceleration, and finishing skills make him a dangerous attacking force. His agility allows him to glide past defenders and create opportunities for his teammates. Since joining Leeds, he has added an extra dimension to their attacking play, often providing key assists and goals in crucial moments.

Lewis O’Brien – £50,000

Lewis O’Brien earns £50,000 per week (£2.6 million annually) as a key midfielder for Swansea City, on loan from Nottingham Forest. Known for his energy, pressing ability, and box-to-box style, O’Brien has been a crucial part of the midfield engine. A product of Huddersfield Town’s academy, he developed into a versatile player capable of contributing both defensively and offensively. His tireless work ethic and tactical intelligence make him a valuable component in any system, particularly in teams that rely on high-intensity play.

Pascal Struijk – £50,000

Pascal Struijk, another £ 50,000-per-week earner, has emerged as a solid defensive option for Leeds United. The Dutch centre-back, initially signed from Ajax, has gradually developed into a first-team regular. Struijk is known for his composure on the ball, strong aerial presence, and tactical awareness. His versatility allows him to play both in central defence and as a left-back when needed. With Leeds aiming for promotion, his presence in the backline remains vital.

Daniel James – £50,000

Daniel James, also earning £50,000 per week, brings blistering pace to Leeds United’s attack. The Welsh winger burst onto the scene at Swansea City before securing moves to Manchester United and later Leeds. Despite struggling for consistency in the Premier League, James has found his footing in the Championship. His ability to stretch defences and make darting runs behind defenders makes him an important part of Leeds’ offensive plans.