Transfermarkt has always been a tremendous source of information, and last March saw the resource publish its list of the most valuable U21 stars in Ligue 1.
Unsurprisingly, this list was dominated by PSG players, while it should be noted that it also includes a wealth of coveted talent that has already made its mark both at home and abroad.
But who are the most valuable U21 starlets currently performing in Ligue 1? Here’s our analysis of the top three.
Warren Zaïre-Emery, PSG (€60 Million)
Midfield starlet Warren Zaïre-Emery made his debut for the Parisian giants at the age of just 16, while he’s already a proven Ligue 1 and Champions League performer.
Last season saw him become a staple in midfield, as he contributed two goals and three assists in 26 Ligue 1 games. He also completed 1311 of his 1428 attempted passes (91.8%), while making 116 progressive passes.
Transfermarkt values the 18-year-old Emery at around €60 million, and he’s now considered to be the joint-fourth most valuable player in the league overall.
He’ll also be the new figurehead at PSG after the departure of Kylian Mbappe during the summer, and fans will be expecting further improvement and some big performances in 2024/25!
Bradley Barcola, PSG (€40 Million)
Now that Nuno Mendes has turned 22 and Leny Yoro has joined Manchester United, PSG’s 21-year-old forward Bradley Barcola has become the second most valuable U21 star in Ligue 1.
Barcola contributed five goals and seven assists in 39 appearances last season, while has already scored three times in just two outings in 2024/25. This included the first brace of his career during a 6-0 thrashing of Montpellier last weekend, and you can get competitive odds on Barcola top scoring in Ligue 1 with the best crypto sports betting site.
Barcola’s value rose by €33 million between January and October 2023, while he has also performed with distinction in the latter stages of the Champions League.
He’s likely to get more playing time in the wake of Mbappe’s departure, and his value may well rise exponentially through 2024/25.
Elye Wahi, Marseille (€35 Million)
Elye Wahi won’t turn 22 until January 2025, while the Courcouronnes-born striker enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in 2023/24.
In fact, he struck 12 goals (and provided three assists) in 36 appearances for Lens, including nine in 27 Ligue 1 outings. As a result, his value has peaked at €35 million, while it could rise further if he enjoys another standout season.
This form also earned him a move to Marseille during the summer, where has already scored in Ligue 1 and starred alongside fellow new signing Mason Greenwood. Both of these talented forwards have chequered pasts, but they look set to thrive under the guidance of new Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi.
The French youth star is now the third most valuable U21 star in Ligue 1, and he now has the perfect stage on which to demonstrate his immense ability.