Leeds United, Leicester City, and Southampton have all made a smooth transition to life in the Championship after being relegated from the Premier League last season. The three clubs currently hold the top spots in the division, with the Foxes and the Saints in the automatic promotion places, and Leeds just trailing by one point.
Despite losing some key players, all three clubs have managed to retain several big-name players and strengthen their squads with parachute payments. This has resulted in the presence of high-earning players who are still receiving Premier League-level wages while playing in the Championship.
Leeds United’s highest paid players are Georginio Rutter and Patrick Bamford, each earning a reported £70,000 a week. Rutter joined the club from Hoffenheim while they were still in the Premier League, explaining his high wage. Bamford, on the other hand, signed a new deal after an outstanding debut Premier League campaign.
Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy tops the list as the highest paid player in the Championship, earning a reported £140,000 per week. Despite his high wage, Vardy has seen limited playing time this season, raising questions about the value of his current contract.
Southampton’s Joe Aribo is the club’s highest earner, making £70,000 a week. As a key player for the team, Aribo has proven to be the best value for money among the highest earners of the three clubs.
In comparison, Vardy’s high wage and reduced playing time suggest that he may be the worst value for money. Despite his previous contributions to the club, his current performance does not justify his top-tier salary.
