TURIN, ITALY – Kenan Yıldız, the dynamic young forward for Juventus, has further cemented his status as one of the most promising talents in world football. A recent report from the International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES) Football Observatory has placed the 20-year-ancient at the top of a list ranking the most valuable under-23 players currently playing outside of the top 10 European leagues.
The CIES report, published on March 29, 2026, estimates Yıldız’s transfer value at a staggering €133.5 million. This valuation reflects his impressive performances for Juventus this season and his growing reputation as a player with immense potential. For context, this figure encompasses both base value and potential add-ons related to performance and future transfer rights.
Yıldız Leads a List of Rising Stars
The ranking, which focuses on players not currently featuring for the ten highest-ranked teams in Europe, highlights the increasing market value of young talent across the continent. Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter Milan came in second with a valuation of €94.7 million, while Yan Diomandé of RB Leipzig rounded out the top three at €83.4 million. The list also includes players from Bayer Leverkusen, Porto, Brighton & Hove Albion, Tottenham Hotspur, Bournemouth and Palmeiras.
Yıldız has quickly become a key figure for Juventus since being promoted to the first team in November 2023. As of March 21, 2026, he has made 91 appearances for the club, scoring 19 goals. He currently wears the iconic number 10 jersey for the Turin-based club, a testament to the faith the club has in his abilities.
Can Uzun Also Recognized
The CIES list also featured another Turkish player, Can Uzun, a childhood friend of Yıldız. Uzun, who plays for Eintracht Frankfurt, was valued at €54.6 million, securing him the 37th spot on the list. This recognition further underscores the growing strength of Turkish football and the emergence of exciting young players from the country.
Yıldız’s journey to the top has been remarkable. Born in Regensburg, Germany, on May 4, 2005, to a Turkish father and a German mother, he began his footballing education at the youth academies of Sallern Regensburg and Jahn Regensburg before joining Bayern Munich in 2012. After spending a decade in the Bayern youth system, he moved to Juventus in July 2022.
The Top 10 Under-23 Players (Outside Top 10 Leagues)
- 1-) Kenan Yıldız (Juventus) – €133.5 million
- 2-) Pio Esposito (Inter) – €94.7 million
- 3-) Yan Diomandé (RB Leipzig) – €83.4 million
- 4-) Christian Kofane (Leverkusen) – €80.9 million
- 5-) Victor Froholdt (Porto) – €80.3 million
- 6-) Diego Gómez (Brighton) – €78.7 million
- 7-) Xavi Simons (Tottenham) – €78.4 million
- 😎 Junior Kroupi (Bournemouth) – €76.6 million
- 9-) Vítor Roque (Palmeiras) – €75.3 million
- 10-) Antonio Nusa (RB Leipzig) – €73.5 million
The valuation of Yıldız is particularly noteworthy given that he hasn’t yet moved to one of Europe’s traditional powerhouses. His continued development at Juventus, coupled with his performances for the Turkish national team – where he has 27 caps and 5 goals as of March 26, 2026 – suggest that his value could increase even further in the coming months.
Yıldız’s versatility is also a key factor in his high valuation. He is capable of playing as an attacking midfielder or a winger, offering tactical flexibility to his coaches. Standing at 1.85 meters (6 ft 1 in), he possesses both the physical attributes and technical skills to excel in multiple positions.
The CIES report utilizes a proprietary algorithm to calculate player values, taking into account a wide range of factors including age, contract length, performance statistics, international appearances, and the financial strength of the player’s current club. The methodology is widely respected within the football industry and provides a valuable benchmark for assessing player worth.
For Juventus fans, this news is a source of pride and optimism. Yıldız represents a significant investment in the future and a symbol of the club’s commitment to developing young talent. His continued progress will be closely watched by supporters and scouts across Europe.
Looking ahead, Juventus will face Fiorentina on April 6, 2026, in a crucial Serie A match. Yıldız is expected to play a key role in the game, and his performance will be under intense scrutiny as Juventus look to secure a Champions League qualification spot. Fans can follow the match live on ESPN+ and DAZN.
What do you believe about Kenan Yıldız’s valuation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
