The latest rankings of world football’s most valuable players are in — and just two Premier League stars have made the coveted top 10 list.
This summer’s Club World Cup has introduced an unusual transfer window format, featuring two opening periods with a brief closure in between. The first phase closes on June 10, before reopening on June 16 and running through to September 1.
As top clubs prepare to open their wallets, Transfermarkt has released its updated list of the most expensive players in world football.
The Top 10 Most Valuable Players
Kicking off the list at number 10 is Real Madrid’s midfield engine Federico Valverde, valued at £110 million. At 26, he’s the oldest player in the top 10 and one of four Real Madrid stars featured.
Next up, Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich), Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen), and Pedri (Barcelona) share the 7th to 9th spots with an estimated value of £118 million each. All are just 22 years old and have made a major impact for both club and country. Pedri’s value has notably risen from £101 million since March, bolstered by Barcelona’s strong domestic and European campaigns.
Only Wirtz, however, appears to be on the transfer radar, with Liverpool reportedly offering £113 million—still short of Bayer Leverkusen’s £126 million valuation.
At number 6 is Bukayo Saka, the first English player on the list. The Arsenal winger, 23, is valued at £126 million, underlining his crucial role for both club and country.
The Elite Five
Into the top five, Vinícius Júnior sees his value drop to £143 million following a trophyless season at Real Madrid, placing him in fifth.
Just ahead are three players tied at £152 million: Kylian Mbappé, fresh from his move to Madrid; Erling Haaland of Manchester City, whose value dipped from £169 million; and Jude Bellingham, who retains his spot despite Real Madrid’s ups and downs.
But sitting alone at the top is Barcelona’s 17-year-old sensation, Lamine Yamal, now worth a staggering £169 million — making him the most valuable footballer in the world. Following a breakout season and a new £33.5 million-per-year deal, Yamal is also considered a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or.
Close Calls and Rising Stars
Cole Palmer narrowly missed the top 10, with his value slipping to £102 million, matching Declan Rice and Alexander Isak. Meanwhile, former Crystal Palace standout Michael Olise enters the top 20 at £85 million, alongside Alexis Mac Allister and Phil Foden, who has seen a £25 million drop in his valuation.
Other notable risers include Desire Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, both now worth £76 million, as well as Ousmane Dembélé, who shares that valuation amid Ballon d’Or whispers.
