10 highest paid footballers in the world

8 Graziano Pelle (Shandong Luneng) – £290,000/week

A large, strong and hardworking striker, Graziano Pelle nearly quadrupled his salary when he made a move from Southampton to struggling Chinese Su[er League side Shandong Luneng.

Earning an absolutely eye-watering amount of £290,000/week, Pelle has settled well into his life at China scoring 5 goals and providing 2 assists in his 13 league appearances so far.

Although Pelle moved to China, Italy’s new coach Ventura called him back for international duty with the Italian scoring in a friendly against France and scoring in an important World Cup qualifier against Israel. However, he was sent back to China for misbehaviour when he refused to shake the hands of Ventura during a match against Spain. He has not been called to the Italian squad since then.

While there is no denying the fact that Pelle is a very good striker, it is safe to say that Chinese side Shandong Luneng have paid over the odds to secure the services of the Italian striker.