• The list clearly highlights the major shift in valuing young talent and confirms Barcelona’s continued ability to produce names that dominate the global stage early

Barcelona made a strong showing in the list of the most expensive 18-year-old players in football history, signaling the success of its talent development project, especially through the “La Masia” academy.

According to Transfermarkt data, four Barcelona players appeared among the top 10 most valuable 18-year-olds, led by rising star Lamine Yamal, whose market value reached €200 million, topping the global ranking.

Yamal at the Top

Yamal’s market value places him among the game’s elite despite his young age, equaling Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé, reflecting the high expectations placed on the young talent.

Clear Edge over Fati

Second historically among Barcelona 18-year-olds is Anssumane Fati, valued at €80 million in 2020 before injuries and loans slowed his progress; he currently plays for Monaco. The huge gap between Yamal and Fati illustrates the massive surge in the transfer market in recent years and highlights the delicate phase young players face between early glory and the pressure to maintain it.

Other Notable Names

Defender Pau Cubarsí ranked third with a value of €70 million in 2025, while Gavi placed fifth at €60 million despite recent injuries. The list also included standout names outside Barcelona, such as Brazilian Endrick (Real Madrid, on loan at Olympique Lyon) valued at €60 million in 2024, and Englishman Jude Bellingham, valued at €55 million in 2021 at Borussia Dortmund.

The rankings underscore the dramatic evolution in evaluating young talents and reaffirm Barcelona’s ability to export players capable of making a global impact early.