2026 World Cup Rising Stars: Bouaddi Shines, Barcola Impresses, Diomande’s Value Surges
Tracking the Top 10 Player Values at the 2026 World Cup
As the 2026 World Cup advances through its group stages, GOAL, partnering with eToro, follows the market values of ten of the tournament's most promising talents. Some players see their worth climb sharply, while others face dips. Here’s how these stars are faring so far.
Deniz Undav – VfB Stuttgart & Germany (£35m)
Once struggling for minutes at Brighton, Deniz Undav has revived his career at VfB Stuttgart. After a loan turned permanent in 2024, he ended the 2025-26 season as Germany's top Bundesliga scorer with 19 goals, second only to Harry Kane overall. Despite limited starts for Germany, Undav made a strong impact off the bench against Curacao by scoring and assisting. Stuttgart secured his contract renewal just before the World Cup, likely preventing a bidding war as he nears 30.
Ayyoub Bouaddi – Lille & Morocco (£60m)
Ayyoub Bouaddi, just 18, stunned many with a dominant display against Brazil in Morocco’s World Cup opener. Though with only three full international caps beforehand, he showed maturity beyond his years, catching eyes across Europe. Having impressed throughout the Ligue 1 season, clubs like Arsenal and Real Madrid are rumored to be monitoring him closely. His entry into this value tracker is fresh but already significant.
Bradley Barcola – Paris Saint-Germain & France (£65m)
Bradley Barcola faces a tough spot at PSG, often behind Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue, and Ousmane Dembele in the pecking order. Despite this, he made a memorable impact coming off the bench in France’s opening World Cup match, quickly scoring to secure victory. If he continues to impress, suitors will likely emerge eager to sign the 23-year-old forward.
Nico Paz – Como & Argentina (£72.5m)
The name Nico Paz might be unfamiliar to many, yet he has been vital for Como under Cesc Fàbregas, netting 12 goals in Serie A last season. Released by Real Madrid in 2024, Paz now finds himself on Argentina’s squad alongside Lionel Messi, usually coming off the bench. Though his value dropped slightly, his trajectory suggests bigger things ahead.
Enzo Fernandez – Chelsea & Argentina (£85m)
After a £106.8m move to Chelsea in 2023, Enzo Fernandez remains a standout player amid club instability. The arrival of Xabi Alonso as coach may influence his future, but a lack of Champions League football weakens Chelsea's bargaining power. His steady World Cup presence keeps his value intact as rumors of a Real Madrid move persist.
Yan Diomande – RB Leipzig & Ivory Coast (£90m)
Yan Diomande is attracting serious attention with his dynamic performances in the Bundesliga. The 19-year-old forward dazzled in Ivory Coast’s 1-0 win over Ecuador, consistently beating his marker. Leipzig’s asking price reportedly approaches £100m, reflecting his rapid rise and potential transfers away from the club.
Morgan Rogers – Aston Villa & England (£90m)
England coach Thomas Tuchel faced a tough choice between Morgan Rogers and Jude Bellingham, ultimately favoring Bellingham in the first game. Rogers has been key in Villa’s recent success, including Europa League triumphs and Champions League qualification. Although starting opportunities have been scarce, he remains poised to make a big impact and boost his transfer value.
Elliot Anderson – Nottingham Forest & England (£105m)
Elliot Anderson has surged from Newcastle fringe player to a top name in Tuchel’s England squad. With Manchester United and Manchester City competing to sign him, his fee could surpass £100m. His composed performance against Croatia indicates his growing importance on the world stage.
Julian Alvarez – Atletico Madrid & Argentina (£115m)
Julian Alvarez left Manchester City in 2024 before fully blossoming, now thriving at Atletico Madrid. Arsenal, Barcelona, and Real Madrid are all interested, with prices exceeding £100m. Alvarez seeks to reclaim a starting role after a substitute appearance against Mexico, hoping to raise his stock further.
Michael Olise – Bayern Munich & France (£135m)
Bayern Munich’s £50m capture of Michael Olise from the Premier League looks astute. Olise shines in Bundesliga and Champions League play, contributing notably to France’s World Cup campaign. His recent assist for Kylian Mbappe confirms his high standing, sending his value up by £10m.
Lamine Yamal – Barcelona & Spain (£195m)
The youngest and highest-valued player here, Lamine Yamal has shown glimpses of brilliance despite a minor injury. He appeared briefly in Spain’s goalless draw with Cape Verde and is expected to start against Saudi Arabia. His slight dip in value is likely temporary as his talent remains undeniable.
