January 8 – Jude Bellingham’s star power and transfer value continues to soar as the Real Madrid and England midfielder tops the latest CIES Football Observatory rankings with a world record valuation of €251 million. The 21-year-old leads a Real Madrid-heavy list of global talent, showcasing the Spanish giants’ unparalleled ability to attract the best in the game.
The Englishman’s valuation comes as little surprise given his exceptional performances since joining Los Blancos, coupled with his long-term contract running until 2029 and his age of just 21. His transfer value places him ahead of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland (€221 million), with a €30 million gap attributed to Bellingham’s longer contract and younger profile (Haaland is 24 with a deal running until 2027).
Real Madrid features heavily in the top five, with Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior (€205 million) in third. Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal (€180 million), the youngest in the top 10 at just 17 years old, ranks fourth, edging out French superstar Kylian Mbappé (€175 million). Despite his contract running until 2029 and being just 26 years old, Mbappé’s valuation is slightly lower, reflecting his tough start to life in Madrid by his usually stellar standards.
The top 10 has three other Premier League players alongside Haaland, led by Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka (€157 million), Chelsea’s Cole Palmer (€150 million) and Manchester City’s Phil Foden (€144 million).
Germany’s Florian Wirtz (€151 million) represents the Bundesliga in the top 10, while Real Madrid’s Rodrygo (€140 million) adds a fourth name to the Spanish giants’ top 10 contingent.
The report highlights the highest-valued players from leagues outside Europe’s traditional big five. Sporting CP’s Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres (€73 million) takes the top spot in this category, showcasing the potential for high-value stars emerging outside the usual powerhouses.
Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen (€67 million) is the highest-value goalkeeper, aged just 22 and already performing to a high standard.
Interestingly, none of Liverpool’s players feature in the top 24, despite the team’s strong form domestically and in Europe. The omission reflects the Reds’ ageing squad and a lack of long-term contract security for several key players. Dutch forward Cody Gakpo (€104 million) is Liverpool’s highest-valued player on the list, with many of the club’s top stars set to see their contracts expire by 2027.
For defenders, Manchester City’s Joško Gvardiol (€115.7 million) tops the rankings, underscoring the Croatian’s value as one of Europe’s elite young centre-backs.
To see the full ranking, click here.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1736446615labto1736446615ofdlr1736446615owedi1736446615sni@g1736446615niwe.1736446615yrrah1736446615