Since the Premier League's inaugural season back in 1992, top tier sides have accumulated a whopping £9.8 billion net spend, with superstar talents from Europe and beyond turning the English top tier into the most-watched football league in the world. Here's a look at where Sunderland past Premier League net-spending ranks in the top forty.
5. Derby County - £28m
Most expensive signing: Robbie Earnshaw from Norwich City - £3.5 million Photo: Shaun Botterill
6. Queens Park Rangers - £32m
Most expensive signing: Christopher Samba from Anzhi Makhachkala - £12.5 million Photo: Paul Gilham
7. Wigan Athletic - £42m
Most expensive signing: Emile Heskey from Birmingham City - £5.5 million Photo: Matthew Lewis
8. Birmingham City - £56m
Most expensive signing: David Dunn from Blackburn Rovers - £5.5 million Photo: Michael Regan