5 expensive defenders who succeeded

#1. Dani Alves (Sevilla - Barcelona)

Dani Alves, the defender who plays like an attacker

Brazilian players are known for their attacking and dominating play, and Dani Alves is not an exception.

As a defender, Alves outperformed most attackers and is usually a constant threat down the flanks, making him seem like an attacker after all.

Dani Alves' dominance on the right flank for Sevilla on their way to back-to- back UEFA Cup triumphs attracted Barcelona, who shelled out €35.5m to sign the Brazilian in the summer of 2007.

At Barcelona, Dani Alves made the right-back position all his own, scoring goals and made a name with keeping attackers at bay. In his time at the club, the 32-year-old Brazilian won 3 Champions League titles, 6 La Liga titles, 4 Copa del Rey cups, 5 Spanish Super cups and 3 FIFA Club World Cup trophies.

Dani Alves is known for his marauding runs down the flanks, his strength, resilience and attacking sense. The Brazilian is also good with set pieces, makes perfectly timed crosses and has a knack for scoring goals.

The amount paid to sign him has nevertheless been justified and Alves will look at his Barcelona days as one of the best in his career.