World Cup Player Value Update: Morocco's Ayyoub Bouaddi Shines as Bradley Barcola and Yan Diomande Boost Their Worth
Tracking Rising Stars at the 2026 World Cup
As the group stages of the 2026 World Cup unfold across North America, GOAL, in collaboration with eToro, monitors the market values of 10 standout players. Will their worth soar or dip? Here's the latest on these promising talents.
Deniz Undav | VfB Stuttgart & Germany | £35m
Just three years ago, Deniz Undav was struggling for minutes at Brighton, overshadowed by Evan Ferguson and Danny Welbeck. A loan move to VfB Stuttgart changed his trajectory, becoming permanent in 2024. Undav ended the 2025-26 season with 19 Bundesliga goals, second only to Harry Kane. Though not in Germany’s starting eleven against Curacao’s 7-1 rout, he made a quick impact off the bench with a goal and assist. Stuttgart secured his contract before the tournament to fend off interest as he nears 30.
Ayyoub Bouaddi | Lille & Morocco | £60m
Few can control a match against Brazil like 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi did in Morocco’s Group C opener. With just three international caps before, he dominated Brazil’s midfield and caught the eye of Europe’s top clubs. Arsenal and Real Madrid have been linked to the Lille midfielder, who had already impressed over the past year in Ligue 1. If he maintains this form, bids will likely flood in before summer’s transfer window closes.
Bradley Barcola | Paris Saint-Germain & France | £65m
PSG faces a dilemma with Bradley Barcola, one of France’s brightest forwards, often sidelined behind Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue, and Ousmane Dembele. The 23-year-old made an immediate mark against Senegal, scoring two minutes after entering late in the game. His performance could push Didier Deschamps to reconsider the starting lineup ahead of France’s next match versus Iraq, sparking interest from several clubs if PSG decides to sell.
Nico Paz | Como & Argentina | £72.5m
Nico Paz might not be a household name yet, but his stock is rising. Released by Real Madrid in 2024, Paz thrived under Cesc Fabregas at Como, netting 12 Serie A goals and helping secure Champions League football. He plays alongside Lionel Messi in Argentina’s squad but has mostly appeared as a late substitute, including in the win over Algeria. His value slipped slightly but remains strong.
Enzo Fernandez | Chelsea & Argentina | £85m
Enzo Fernandez arrived at Chelsea for £106.8m in 2023 and remains a standout amid a turbulent period at the club. Now under Xabi Alonso, the midfielder could either stay or seek a move, with Real Madrid reportedly interested. Without Champions League football, Chelsea might face pressure to sell. Fernandez played the full match against Algeria, boosting his appeal to potential buyers.
Yan Diomande | RB Leipzig & Ivory Coast | £90m
Yan Diomande’s transfer rumors are loud and persistent. The 19-year-old forward has impressed in the Bundesliga, drawing attention from Europe’s elite. In Ivory Coast’s 1-0 victory over Ecuador, he was arguably the best player, consistently beating his marker. Leipzig now demands around £100m to part with him, reflecting his growing reputation.
Morgan Rogers | Aston Villa & England | £90m
Thomas Tuchel faced a tough choice between Morgan Rogers and Jude Bellingham for England’s World Cup squad. Bellingham started the opener, leaving Rogers on the bench despite his key role at Aston Villa, helping secure Champions League qualification and Europa League glory. Rogers remains calm and ready, poised for a breakthrough moment that could drive up his transfer value.
Elliot Anderson | Nottingham Forest & England | £105m
Elliot Anderson’s rise has been remarkable. From Newcastle’s fringes to a regular for England under Tuchel, he is highly sought after, with Manchester United and Manchester City competing for his signature. After a solid display in England’s win over Croatia, his price could hit record levels for a British player.
Julian Alvarez | Atletico Madrid & Argentina | £115m
Manchester City sold Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid in 2024 for £85m, a move they may regret as he shines brighter each season. Arsenal is keen to sign him, but Barcelona and Real Madrid also compete, with prices above £100m. Alvarez hopes to reclaim a starting spot after a limited role in Argentina’s opener.
Michael Olise | Bayern Munich & France | £135m
Bayern Munich's acquisition of Michael Olise from Crystal Palace for around £50m in 2024 looks like a steal. The winger has dazzled in the Bundesliga and Champions League, cementing his place in France’s attack. His recent assist to Kylian Mbappe against Senegal raised his value further, making any summer offer a massive one.
Lamine Yamal | Barcelona & Spain | £195m
At just 18, Lamine Yamal might be football’s most valuable player. Despite carrying an injury into the World Cup, he featured off the bench in Spain’s goalless draw with Cape Verde and is expected to start against Saudi Arabia. His value dipped slightly after limited minutes but his potential remains sky-high.
