Listed: Top 20 Outstanding Premier League Forwards Across History
In the annals of English football, few records have remained as unyielding as Alan Shearer's all-time Premier League goalscoring record. As of 2025, Shearer's tally of 260 goals continues to stand firm, a testament to his consistency, power, and accuracy during his illustrious career[1][4].
However, a new contender is emerging on the horizon, ready to challenge Shearer's hallowed record. Erling Haaland, the prolific striker currently gracing the Premier League, has shown an uncanny ability to find the back of the net[3]. In the 2022–23 season alone, Haaland won the Golden Boot with a staggering 36 goals, maintaining a goals-to-games ratio above 1.00[3].
While Haaland's total does not yet surpass Shearer's, his potential to break the record is undeniable. As of mid-2025, Haaland has scored 63 goals in just 66 games in the Premier League[1]. If he continues at this pace, he could potentially challenge Shearer's record in the coming seasons.
Among other notable players, Sergio Aguero holds the record for the most goals scored by an overseas player in the Premier League, with 183 goals during his ten-year stint with Manchester City[2]. Eric Cantona, another iconic figure, was the catalyst behind Manchester United's early dominance of the Premier League. His kung fu kick on a Crystal Palace fan remains one of the most iconic moments in the competition's history[2].
Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry also left indelible marks on Arsenal during their respective tenures. Bergkamp, known for his ability to run the show and create opportunities for his teammates, scored 87 goals in 11 seasons with the Gunners[1]. Henry, who brought a grace and sense of style to English football, netted 20 or more goals in five straight seasons during Arsenal's modern golden age[1].
Andy Cole, another remarkable striker, scored 187 goals in the Premier League, a remarkable tally considering he did not take penalties[1]. Despite these impressive feats, none have been able to approach Shearer's record in the last 18 years, making Haaland's potential challenge all the more thrilling.
As the 2024–25 season approaches, football fans eagerly await to see if Haaland will indeed challenge Shearer's record. With potential transfers to Barcelona or Real Madrid on the horizon, the stage is set for one of the most exciting chapters in Premier League history.
Erling Haaland's impressive goalscoring feat in the Premier League, with 63 goals in 66 games, positions him to potentially challenge Alan Shearer's all-time goalscoring record in the future. Regardless of transfers to European leagues like La Liga, Haaland's current pace suggests a possible contest for the Premier League's highest goalscoring record in the upcoming seasons.