As football continues to experience massive financial growth, securing young talent has become an increasingly expensive endeavor.
Players under 21 now command huge wages, with some of the world’s brightest young stars earning eye-watering salaries.
Below, The Standard presents the world’s top 11 highest-paid under-21 footballers based on their weekly wages.
11. Marcos Leonardo (Al-Ittihad) – £82,396 per week
The 21-year-old Brazilian forward has made an impressive start in Saudi Arabia, earning £82,396 per week at Al-Ittihad.
After scoring 13 goals in his first 16 league appearances, Leonardo has proven that he deserves his high salary as he continues to make a name for himself.
10. Arda Güler (Real Madrid) – £84,012 per week
At just 19 years old, Arda Güler is already playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world. The Turkish midfielder, who has been compared to Lionel Messi by a former coach, earns £84,012 per week at Real Madrid.
With his immense potential, Güler could become one of the biggest stars in football in the coming years.
9. Benjamin Šeško (RB Salzburg) – £91,444 per week
The 21-year-old Slovenian striker is quickly becoming one of the most exciting young players in Europe. Known for his power, speed, and goal-scoring ability, Šeško earns a £91,444 weekly wage at RB Salzburg.
His performances have drawn the attention of top clubs, and he looks set to become a world-class forward.
8. Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig) – £96,637 per week
Xavi Simons has been in excellent form for RB Leipzig, contributing five goals and four assists in the Bundesliga. The 20-year-old Dutch attacking midfielder earns £96,637 per week.
Having previously been a wonderkid at PSV, Simons is now proving his worth at Leipzig and could move to an even bigger club in the future.
7. Carney Chukwuemeka (Chelsea) – £100,000 per week
Despite limited playing time, Carney Chukwuemeka’s £100,000 weekly salary at Chelsea reflects the club’s belief in his potential. The 21-year-old English midfielder has shown glimpses of his talent, and if given more opportunities, he could become a key player for the Blues.
6. Levi Colwill (Chelsea) – £100,000 per week
Levi Colwill has been a bright spot for Chelsea this season, playing a key role in the team’s defense. At just 21, the English defender earns £100,000 per week, and his performances suggest that he is worth every penny. Chelsea fans will hope that Colwill continues to develop into a top-class center-back.
5. Leny Yoro (Manchester United) – £115,000 per week
Leny Yoro’s high salary at Manchester United is based on the promise he showed early in his career. The 19-year-old French defender earns £115,000 per week and is expected to play a big role in the club’s future. United will be hoping that Yoro can help them return to the top of English football.
4. Warren Zaïre-Emery (PSG) – £135,712 per week
At just 18 years old, Warren Zaïre-Emery has already become one of PSG’s most important players. The French midfielder’s £135,712 weekly wage reflects his rapid rise and the club’s confidence in his future. Zaïre-Emery is set to be a key figure in PSG’s midfield for years to come.
3. Gavi Martín (Barcelona) – £149,746.61 per week
Gavi’s new contract at Barcelona will keep him at the club until 2030, with an improved salary. This season, he has been a major contributor and a key midfield cog on Hansi Flick’s side, impressing both domestically and in Europe.
2. Jhon Durán (Al-Nassr) – £320,000 per week
After moving to Saudi Arabia in January, Jhon Durán has quickly made an impact at Al-Nassr, scoring four goals in just two games. The Colombian striker earns a massive £320,000 per week and has the opportunity to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
Durán’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia for both financial and footballing reasons seems to be paying off.
1. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) – £336,544 per week
Jude Bellingham is the highest-paid under-21 footballer in the world, earning £336,544 per week at Real Madrid.
The 19-year-old English midfielder has been sensational for both club and country, leading Real Madrid to a La Liga title and a Champions League win.
Bellingham’s ability to perform at the highest level at such a young age makes him one of the most valuable players in world football. With his exceptional talent, he is expected to remain at the top for many years to come.
