Rodri reigns supreme in this list filled with powerhouses, prodigies, and positional masters — despite being injured for months.
Here are the elite holding midfielders commanding the most value in the world.
1. Rodri (Manchester City) – €130M
Arguably the best in the world in his role. Rodri’s control, tactical awareness, and clutch goals have made him irreplaceable for Pep Guardiola. His exceptional performances for City earned him the Ballon d’Or 2024.
2. Moisés Caicedo (Chelsea) – €80M
Still adjusting to life at Chelsea, Caicedo’s relentless work rate and ball-winning ability justify his hefty price tag. Although he is yet to live up to expectations, but his is not bad.
3. Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid) – €80M
Strong, intelligent, and composed. Tchouaméni has been central to Madrid’s defensive structure this season. Both in the midfield and in the defence due to several injury crises in the Madrid’s defensive line this season.
4. Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United) – €80M
A driving force in midfield. Bruno mixes grit with guile, Newcastle’s dip in form last season and in the beginning of this season hasn’t much affected his valuation long-term. He lead his team to their first major title in 30 years. They won the Carabao Cup against Liverpool.
5. Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool) – €70M
Still growing into his role, Gravenberch shows glimpses of brilliance. His athleticism and ball control are key assets.
6. João Neves (PSG) – €65M
PSG’s midfield prodigy. Neves is technically sound and tactically aware, a true regista in the making. He has been impressive this year leading PSG to Ligue 1 trophy with 6 games left to play. He has since received his Portugal national team call up.
7. Martín Zubimendi (Real Sociedad) – €60M
Highly rated across Europe, Zubimendi remains loyal to Sociedad. He’s a silent controller who lets his football speak. Several big European teams are waiting for his signature including Arsenal and Real Madrid, that’s to tell you how good he has been for both Spain and Real Sociedad.
8. Amadou Onana (Everton) – €55M
A physical beast with growing tactical discipline. Onana is a rare bright spark in an otherwise struggling Everton side.
9. Aleksandar Pavlović (Bayern Munich) – €50M
Still developing, but his maturity at Bayern has been noticeable. Pavlović could be their long-term midfield anchor.
10. Manuel Ugarte (Manchester United) – €50M
Ugarte brings aggression and bite to United’s midfield. While adapting to the Premier League, his potential remains high.
