Barcelona playmaker Neymar has been named the most valuable player in the world, according to a report by CIES Football Observatory.
The 25-year old ranked higher than clubmate Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Eden Hazard and Harry Kane.
The research considered several factors such as contract with present club and the status of the club, age, international status, appeal and marketability et al. The study looked at the most desirable players in the top leagues in Europe. Players valued at over £40 million were considered.
Tottenham Hotspur duo of Harry Kane and Dele Alli ranked high on the list due to their impressive results posted for club and country. Alli is the second most valuable, and it is logical considering his age, achievements already and potential. He is estimated to be worth £137 million while his teammate Kane would be around £135 especially if he gets the Three Lions captaincy armband on a permanent basis.
PSG had looked at luring Neymar last year with around £150 million. This report claims the Brazilian is worth around £35 million more than the French giant’s estimation. His teammate Messi is valued at £134 million even though the Argentine is not likely to exit the Nou Camp in his prime.
Atletico Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann is valued at £132 million while Luis Suarez is valued at £124 million. Paul Pogba is valued at £118 million despite breaking the world record when he rejoined Man United for £89 million. Gonzalo Higuain at £106 million, Hazard at £104 million and Paulo Dybala at £102 million complete the top ten. Ronaldo is 11th on the list with valuation of £99 million even at 32 years.
Romelu Lukaku, Kylian Mbappe, Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling, Alexis Sanchez and Roberto Firmino also rank high on the list.