The 15 Most Expensive Footballers Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will showcase the world’s elite talent. As clubs and national teams prepare for the global spectacle, the market value of top players continues to rise, driven by their performances, contracts, and commercial appeal. Below is a list of the 15 most expensive footballers as of 2024, reflecting their current market worth and potential impact on the upcoming World Cup.
1. Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain / France)
With a transfer fee of €180 million from Monaco in 2017, Mbappé remains the highest-paid player in the world. His explosive pace, goal-scoring ability, and global fame make him a cornerstone of France’s World Cup aspirations. FIFA has consistently ranked him among the top talents in the sport.
2. Erling Haaland (Manchester City / Norway)
The Norwegian striker’s €60 million move from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester City in 2022 cemented his status as one of the most sought-after forwards. His physicality and 36-goal season in 2022-23 have amplified his value, with Transfermarkt estimating his current worth at over €200 million.
3. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid / England)
Bellingham’s €100 million transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in 2023 was a landmark deal. The 21-year-old midfielder’s maturity, composure, and pivotal role in England’s 2022 World Cup campaign have made him a key figure for both club and country.
4. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City / Belgium)
The Belgian playmaker’s €60 million move to Manchester City in 2015 has paid dividends. Known for his vision and creativity, De Bruyne’s €150 million valuation reflects his role as a world-class operator in midfield.
5. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich / England)
Kane’s €90 million transfer to Bayern Munich in 2023 was a statement of intent. The England captain’s goal-scoring record and leadership on the pitch have made him one of the most valuable strikers in Europe.
6. Neymar Jr. (Paris Saint-Germain / Brazil)
The Brazilian forward’s €222 million move from Barcelona to PSG in 2017 remains the world’s most expensive transfer. Despite injuries, his market value remains high due to his flair, global brand, and importance to Brazil’s World Cup squad.
7. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool / Egypt)
Salah’s €63 million move from Roma to Liverpool in 2017 has been transformative. The Egyptian star’s consistency, 30+ goal seasons, and 2022 World Cup heroics have kept his value at over €120 million.
8. Luka Modrić (Real Madrid / Croatia)
The 37-year-old Croatian legend’s €30 million move to Real Madrid in 2012 was a bargain. His 2018 Ballon d’Or win and World Cup heroics for Croatia have kept his market value around €80 million.
9. Erling Haaland (Manchester City / Norway)
See entry above for Haaland.
10. Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain / France)
See entry above for Mbappé.