World Cup Player Value Tracker: Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi Shines as Bradley Barcola and Michael Olise Impress; Yan Diomande’s Price Soars
As the 2026 World Cup unfolds across North America, GOAL, in collaboration with eToro, follows the fluctuating market values of ten highly sought-after football talents. Some players have seen their worth climb sharply, while others face slight dips.
Deniz Undav | VfB Stuttgart & Germany | £35m
Just three years ago, Deniz Undav was struggling for game time at Brighton, overshadowed by Evan Ferguson and Danny Welbeck. His loan move to VfB Stuttgart changed his trajectory dramatically. After making the move permanent in 2024, Undav has flourished, ending the 2025-26 season as Germany’s top Bundesliga scorer behind Harry Kane. Although he didn’t start Germany’s big win over Curacao, coming off the bench he quickly scored and assisted within 25 minutes, proving his impact. Stuttgart secured his contract renewal before the tournament, a wise move given his rising profile.
Ayyoub Bouaddi | Lille & Morocco | £60m
Few players can dictate a match against Brazil, especially an 18-year-old with just three international caps. Ayyoub Bouaddi did just that during Morocco’s Group C opener, dominating midfield and catching the eye of Europe’s elite clubs. Already linked to Arsenal and Real Madrid, Bouaddi’s mature displays in Ligue 1 had set the stage for his breakout. If he maintains this level, we expect a fierce transfer battle for his signature before the window closes.
Bradley Barcola | Paris Saint-Germain & France | £65m
Despite his talent, Bradley Barcola has mostly been on the bench for PSG, competing with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue, and Ousmane Dembele for spots. His World Cup chances have been limited, benched for France’s opener against Senegal. Yet, when he entered late, Barcola immediately made a mark, scoring with a deft finish. His value rose by £5 million, and if he continues to impress, suitors will line up for the 23-year-old forward.
Nico Paz | Como & Argentina | £72.5m
Nico Paz remains under the radar for many but has shone in Serie A under Cesc Fabregas, netting 12 goals—the most by any midfielder in Italy last season—and helping Como qualify for the Champions League. Part of Argentina’s squad alongside Lionel Messi, Paz has mostly been a substitute, including a late appearance against Algeria. His value dipped slightly but expect his profile to rise with more World Cup minutes.
Enzo Fernandez | Chelsea & Argentina | £85m
Enzo Fernandez arrived at Chelsea for £106.8m in 2023 and has stood out amid the club’s turbulent recent years. New manager Xabi Alonso faces the challenge of convincing him to stay or risk losing him to Real Madrid. Fernandez played the full match in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria, boosting his market value ahead of the summer transfer window.
Yan Diomande | RB Leipzig & Ivory Coast | £90m
Yan Diomande’s impressive Bundesliga form has sparked transfer rumors involving several top European clubs. The 19-year-old forward dominated Ivory Coast’s 1-0 victory over Ecuador, consistently outplaying Arsenal’s Piero Hincapie. Leipzig now demands around £100m for the young talent. His value jumped by £10 million during the tournament.
Morgan Rogers | Aston Villa & England | £90m
Morgan Rogers faced tough competition for a starting spot with Jude Bellingham leading England’s midfield. Though Bellingham started and scored in the opener, Rogers’ consistent performances at Aston Villa—including helping secure Champions League qualification and Europa League success—keep him in the spotlight. He remains a target for clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool.
Elliot Anderson | Nottingham Forest & England | £105m
From Newcastle fringe player to one of England’s key midfielders under Thomas Tuchel, Elliot Anderson’s rise has been swift. Manchester’s biggest clubs are battling for his signature, with fees expected to exceed £100 million. Anderson impressed in England’s World Cup opener against Croatia, solidifying his high valuation.
Julian Alvarez | Atletico Madrid & Argentina | £115m
Manchester City may regret letting Julian Alvarez go in 2024, having sold him for £85m before he truly blossomed. Now at Atletico Madrid, Alvarez is valued at £115m despite a slight dip after a subdued World Cup opener. Arsenal, Barcelona, and Real Madrid are all reportedly interested, ready to pay a premium for the Argentine forward.
Michael Olise | Bayern Munich & France | £135m
Bayern Munich's acquisition of Michael Olise from the Premier League for around £50m looks like a steal. The 24-year-old French international has dazzled in the Bundesliga and Champions League. At the World Cup, Olise delivered a stunning assist for Kylian Mbappe in France’s 3-1 win over Senegal. His value increased by £10 million, reflecting his rising stature.
Lamine Yamal | Barcelona & Spain | £195m
At just 18, Lamine Yamal stands among the world’s most valuable players. Despite carrying an injury into the tournament and a brief appearance in Spain’s 0-0 draw with Cape Verde, Yamal remains the nation’s brightest hope. While his value dipped slightly due to limited playtime, his potential to influence Spain’s campaign is immense.
