#4. Eben Etzebeth (Toulon) – £900,000
Toulon have developed the unfortunate habit of paying players ludicrous salaries in the last decade, but handing the Springbok powerhouse a big contract looked liked good business from the three-time European champions.
Described as a ‘handicap’ by the club Toulon president, the 30-year-old powerhouse actually played more times for his country in 2021, making 12 appearances for the Springboks.
