5 most valuable midfielders in the world right now

Midfield is an extremely important position in football, because the real 'powerhouse' of a football team is actually located in the center of the pitch, as the midfield is where it starts and where it ends. With Paul Pogba once being the most expensive midfielder in the world a couple of years ago, times have surely changed as we now move into a newer generation of the sport.

Over the years, the transfer values for some players have changed drastically. 2017, in particular, was a year where the transfer records were broken, and significantly too. 5 such midfield menaces have topped the list and have not only made themselves as the most consistent footballers but have also earned the title of being the most expensive midfielders in the world. A transfer could change it all for them.

#5 Saul Niguez - Atletico Madrid (€90million)

Saul has the potential to become one of the greatest midfielders of all time.

Saul is regarded by many as one of the hottest talents in the world, as his ability to play at any position in the midfield and in the attack makes him different from any other player in the world. Standing 6'0 tall, the Spaniard has it all. From pace to ball control, he is considered as one of the most complete midfielders of this generation.

Diego Simeone has developed a lot of players under his realm, and Saul is one of the jewels. At the age of 23, his transfer value is way more than most players in his particular position. Much comes from his ability to orchestrate the play and control the midfield from his zone. Rumors did suggest in the past that the Spaniard would be moving to the Spanish capital to join Real Madrid, but has shunned the reports and he decided to stay with Atleti.

All Stats via transfermarkt

#4 Sergej Milinkovic-Savic - Lazio (€90million)

Milinkovic-Savic is one of the most complete midfielders in the world.

The 'Iconic Serbian' has had a lot to offer, as with his tall stature and strength, Milinkovic-Savic is one of the rare talents who has been chased by the likes of Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Barcelona. A complete package is what he really is, as he holds the versatility and the ambidexterity to deploy himself both as a central midfielder and as an attacking midfielder, often switching to a deeper role. In addition, the Serb can also play as a defensive midfielder totally depending on the situation.

With the January transfer window being the next stop for the biggest names in all of Europe, Milinkovic-Savic can surely become one of the most expensive signings as multiple clubs have had eyes on him for a long time. While he can be a threat to the opposition, he can also develop some of the best plays the world has ever seen.

#3 Dele Alli - Tottenham Hotspur (€100million)

With almost 40 goals in over 100 appearances for the Spurs, Alli is one of Pochettino's most valuable assets. He is known mainly for his inter-plays and the fact that he can play as a forward, an attacking midfielder or a central playmaker depending totally on the situation. While he is yet to win a major trophy with this current side, it does not shy away from the fact that he has what it takes in order to become one of the top midfielders in the world.

While there were speculations buzzing around his departure, he has signed a new contract with Spurs this season and has decided to stay at his current club. Given the fact that he is a midfielder of top quality, the big guns of football won't give up at all in order to get his signature.

#2 Philippe Coutinho - Barcelona (€150million)

Coutinho is an extremely important player for Barcelona

The little magician's contribution in Barcelona's success this season has been unparalleled, as he has transitioned into a complete midfielder at the Camp Nou, switching from the left side as a winger to an attacking midfielder on multiple occasions. He is mostly known for his long-range shots, inter-plays, and intelligence.

At Barcelona, Valverde has given him a deeper role, something that has allowed him to explore through the empty spaces. Combining with the likes of Arthur Melo, Coutinho has had a blast since the beginning of this season.

With his transfer to Barcelona last January, La Blaugrana signed him for an estimated fee of €130million, since then, Coutinho has only grown in stature both on and off the pitch. He is currently rated at a price tag of €150million, making him the second most expensive midfielder in the world. With Barcelona's current form being extremely strong, Coutinho could lead his side all the way to the Champions League finals.

#1 Kevin De Bruyne - Manchester City (€150million)

No introduction is required for the Belgian international, as under the realm of Pep Guardiola, De Bruyne has developed into one of the most feared players in all of football. His pace is one of his extremely important traits, with which he is able to lead the midfield along with David Silva. A set-piece specialist and a regular goalscoring midfielder, he has been heralded by many as a future Ballon d'Or winner.

While Chelsea sold him for a mere sum of €22million, De Bruyne now ranks at the top as the most expensive midfielder in all of football. Transitioning into a box to box midfielder and an attacking midfielder at multiple occasions, the Belgian has made a name for himself.

His performance at the world cup too has given a boost to his current transfer value, as he was able to take his side all the way to the semifinals of the tournament. While he is currently injured, very little is known about his return to the Etihad.

All Stats via transfermarkt