Ranking the 5 most valuable footballers in the world right now

This summer, football clubs around the world are poised to spend big once more, and we could witness new transfer records being set at multiple teams.

So, which players are likely contenders to break the current world transfer record?

Sports Brief has ranked the five most valuable footballers in the world right now, using data from transfermarkt.

5. Phil Foden – Manchester City (€150m)

Phil Foden is on track to become a rare one-club man in modern football. Rising through Manchester City’s academy, Foden has been instrumental in the club’s success under Pep Guardiola.

The 23-year-old had a stellar 2023-24 season, scoring 27 goals across all competitions and earning both the Premier League Player of the Season and FWA Footballer of the Year awards. With 17 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and a Champions League, Foden’s value stands at €150m.

4. Kylian Mbappe – Paris Saint-Germain (€180m)

Kylian Mbappe, one of the world’s most valuable players, is set to leave PSG for free this summer, likely joining Real Madrid. Mbappe departs as PSG’s all-time leading scorer with 256 goals in 308 matches. The 25-year-old has topped Ligue 1’s scoring charts for six consecutive seasons and now aims to conquer new challenges in Spain, seeking the elusive Champions League title.

3. Vinicius Junior – Real Madrid (€180m)

Vinicius Junior, soon to be Mbappe’s teammate at Real Madrid, is valued at €180m. The 23-year-old Brazilian has been pivotal for Los Blancos, leading the Champions League in goals and assists since 2021-22. Vinicius scored 20+ goals in three straight seasons, including a decisive goal in the 2-0 Champions League final win over Borussia Dortmund. He holds the record as the youngest player to score in two Champions League finals and is a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or, especially if Brazil shines at the Copa America.

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2. Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid (€180m)

Jude Bellingham, another key figure for Real Madrid, shares the €180m valuation. After signing from Borussia Dortmund for £88m, Bellingham had a sensational debut season in Spain, scoring 23 goals across all competitions. He played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s La Liga, Champions League, and Spanish Super Cup treble and was named Player of the Season in La Liga.

1. Erling Haaland – Manchester City (€180m)

Erling Haaland is tied at the top with a €180m valuation. The Norwegian striker has been a scoring sensation since his early days at Red Bull Salzburg, continuing his prolific form at Borussia Dortmund before joining Manchester City. Haaland’s debut season in the Premier League saw him score a record-breaking 36 goals, leading City to a historic treble. With 90 goals in 98 appearances for City, Haaland is a top contender to break future transfer records.

These football stars are not only the most valuable players in the world but also potential record-breakers in the ever-inflating transfer market.