Top 10 most valuable U-23 forwards in the world right now according to CIES (2021)

#3 Phil Foden - €150 million

Manchester City v Everton - Premier League

It was quite evident from the U-17 World Cup in 2017 that Phil Foden is a generational talent. Although a creative playmaker by trade, Foden can effectively play just as well on the wings.

Despite his young age and a host of stars present in the Manchester City squad, Foden has become a trusted member of Pep Guardiola.

With his technical brilliance and impeccable vision, Foden freely rotates between wide positions and the central area in Guardiola's tactics.

Foden has already made 15 appearances for Manchester City in the current campaign. He has made five assists and scored as many goals, along with stellar displays when it comes to setting up chances and scoring from chances created by others.

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#2 Vinicius Jr. - €150 million

FC Barcelona v Real Madrid CF - La Liga Santander

Real Madrid fans wondered for a long time if they had made another error in judgment. Since the Los Blancos missed out on Neymar to Barcelona, the club from the Spanish capital have been on the lookout for talented Brazilian teenagers.

Vinicius Jr did not come cheap, but did not make an impact right away. Despite not setting the stage on fire in the past, the forward has been unbelievable so far this term.

Vinicius has been in fiery form for Real Madrid this season and has been the star of the offense so far. He has made 21 appearances this campaign and already has an incredible 19 goal contributions.

While Vinicius may have a high estimated transfer value, Real Madrid consider him irreplaceable at the moment and won't cash-in.

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#1 Erling Haaland - €150 million

VfL Wolfsburg v Borussia Dortmund - Bundesliga

The Norwegian striker is arguably the most sought-after player in world football right now. He was long pursued by Chelsea, who were ultimately outpriced by the demands of Borussia Dortmund. Erling Haaland has an upcoming release clause that is likely to create the most intense bidding war for a footballer in recent history.

By Haaland's standards, he has had a slow start to the season due to his injury. Yet, the Norwegian has 19 goal contributions from just 12 appearances in the current season.

It remains to be seen where the Norwegian moves in the summer or if he decides to spend another season in Dortmund. One thing is for sure is that his suitors will be getting arguably the best out-and-out centre-forward for the next decade at least.