Premier League's All-Time Top Goalscorers

The legendary Alan Shearer remains the Premier League’s all-time leading goalscorer with 260 goals.

Key Players and Records

Alan Shearer has held the top scorer record since December 1992, marking 31 years at the summit as of December 2025.
His 260 goals were scored over an extended period, but he took the lead from Teddy Sheringham in late 1993.
Teddy Sheringham briefly led the goalscoring chart in 1993, before Shearer overtook him. Shearer had initially led in the inaugural Premier League season before suffering a serious knee injury.
Jermain Defoe ranks among the top with 162 goals.

Challenges to Shearer’s Record

Various players have threatened Shearer’s record over the years, but none have surpassed it so far. Harry Kane’s summer exit marked the loss of a major contender.

Erling Haaland’s current scoring rate suggests he could soon challenge Shearer’s record, though frequent transfers in modern football may affect this race.

"At the rate Erling Haaland is scoring, it probably won’t be that long until we’re pondering whether he’ll be the one to knock Shearer off his perch."

Potential Longevity of the Record

Due to player mobility and league changes nowadays, it is quite possible that Shearer’s record will stand for decades more.

"The modern-day footballer changes club and/or league so frequently that it’s also not out of the question that Shearer’s record remains intact for decades more."

Author’s summary: Alan Shearer’s unmatched Premier League goal record, sustained over three decades, faces rising challenges but may endure given the game's evolving dynamics.

Opta Analyst — 2025-11-02