World Cup Rising Stars: Player Value Updates Featuring Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi and France’s Bradley Barcola

Tracking the Market Value of Top World Cup Talents

As the 2026 World Cup unfolds across North America, GOAL, in partnership with eToro, is monitoring the market values of 10 promising players making their mark on the tournament. Some players are seeing their worth climb, while others face drops amid intense competition and performances.

Deniz Undav - VfB Stuttgart & Germany | £35m

Three years ago, Deniz Undav was struggling for playing time at Brighton, overshadowed by peers like Evan Ferguson and Danny Welbeck. His loan move to VfB Stuttgart, made permanent in 2024, changed everything. Scoring 19 goals in the 2025-26 Bundesliga season, he became Germany’s top scorer after Harry Kane. Despite not starting in Germany's 7-1 victory over Curacao, Undav impacted the game with a goal and an assist off the bench. Stuttgart locked him down with a new contract just before the World Cup, knowing demand would surge as he nears 30.

Ayyoub Bouaddi - Lille & Morocco | £60m

Only 18 and with just three full caps, Ayyoub Bouaddi stunned many with his commanding display against Brazil in Morocco’s Group C opener. Already noticed for mature performances in Ligue 1 with Lille, his showing at MetLife Stadium drew interest from top clubs like Arsenal and Real Madrid. If he keeps this level up, a bidding war could erupt before the summer window closes.

Bradley Barcola - Paris Saint-Germain & France | £65m

Despite his undeniable talent, Barcola finds himself behind Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue, and Ousmane Dembele in PSG’s lineup. The 23-year-old has been mainly on the bench but made a quick impact against Senegal, scoring two minutes after coming on. His future might lie away from PSG if regular minutes don’t come, and several clubs are likely watching closely.

Nico Paz - Como & Argentina | £72.5m

Nico Paz has quietly impressed in Serie A under Cesc Fabregas, netting 12 goals and helping Como reach the Champions League. Though released by Real Madrid in 2024, his rising profile earned him a spot alongside Lionel Messi for Argentina. So far, he has mostly appeared as a late substitute, but his free-kick goal earlier this year caught many eyes. His value dipped slightly but remains strong.

Enzo Fernandez - Chelsea & Argentina | £85m

Fernandez arrived at Chelsea for £106.8m in 2023 and has been one of the few bright spots amid turmoil. With a new manager in Xabi Alonso, it’s unclear if he will stay or move on—Real Madrid being a favored destination. A strong World Cup run could push his price higher. He played the full 90 minutes in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria, signaling his importance.

Yan Diomande - RB Leipzig & Ivory Coast | £90m

The 19-year-old Ivorian forward Yan Diomande has attracted serious interest thanks to impressive Bundesliga displays. His full-match performance in Ivory Coast’s 1-0 win over Ecuador included repeatedly beating Arsenal’s Piero Hincapie. Leipzig are reportedly demanding close to £100m for him, reflecting his growing reputation and recent £10m value increase.

Morgan Rogers - Aston Villa & England | £90m

Thomas Tuchel faced a tough call between starting Morgan Rogers or Jude Bellingham for England’s opener. With Bellingham chosen first, Rogers remains ready to seize any opportunity. His role in helping Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League and winning the Europa League adds weight to his value. Interest from Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool is expected.

Elliot Anderson - Nottingham Forest & England | £105m

Elliot Anderson has risen rapidly from Newcastle’s fringe player to a key figure for England and Nottingham Forest. Both Manchester clubs are battling for his signature, with fees projected to exceed £100m. His polished performance against Croatia at the World Cup could push him toward becoming Britain’s record transfer.

Julian Alvarez - Atletico Madrid & Argentina | £115m

After Manchester City sold him to Atletico for £85m in 2024, Julian Alvarez has blossomed into a top striker. Arsenal, Barcelona, and Real Madrid all show interest, though a move won’t be cheap. His limited impact as a substitute in Argentina’s opener means he’ll aim to reclaim a starting spot to boost his value.

Michael Olise - Bayern Munich & France | £135m

Bayern Munich’s £50m signing Michael Olise has been a star in both Bundesliga and Champions League. His creativity and assists have made him vital for France, including a standout assist in their 3-1 win over Senegal. This season, his value surged by £10m, reflecting his world-class form.

Lamine Yamal - Barcelona & Spain | £195m

Barcelona’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal carries enormous expectations at just 18. Despite a minor injury and a brief appearance in Spain’s 0-0 draw with Cape Verde, he remains a key figure for his country. His value dropped slightly, but we expect that to bounce back once he gets more game time.