Potential Market Value Resurgence?
©IMAGO
One of the most exciting aspects of the summer transfer window is its ability to transform players into heroes seemingly overnight. European football is teeming with young talent, each with the potential to emulate legends like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, or Kylian Mbappé. As a result, hype builds, market values soar, and soon enough, top clubs are investing massive sums on emerging stars. Then, just a year later, we witness the same frenzy—albeit with a fresh lineup of players.
However, the transfer market isn’t solely about fresh faces. While headlines and highlight reels spotlight the latest signings, countless players who have fallen from grace are eager to reestablish their careers. Clubs that are willing to explore the lesser-known corners of Europe’s top leagues can unearth some of the smartest deals. So, which players from the Premier League, who faced challenges in the previous 2024/25 season, could greatly benefit from a fresh start? We’ve identified five key contenders.
Jadon Sancho – €2m Decline in Market Value Last Season
First on our list is Jadon Sancho, an English talent who seems to be struggling to find favor in the Premier League. After a disappointing stint at Manchester United and a failed loan at Chelsea—which included the Blues paying to avoid a permanent deal—Sancho’s aspirations of becoming a top Premier League player appear bleak. Nonetheless, at just 25, his record of eight goals and assists in 31 league appearances isn’t terrible. In fact, notable forwards like Noni Madueke (12 goal contributions) and Pedro Neto (10) didn’t significantly outperform him within Chelsea’s goal-challenged squad. Although neither Man Utd nor Chelsea seem keen on keeping Sancho, a forward-thinking club could provide him with the opportunity he needs to revive his career, and he could see his market value rebound quickly.
Harvey Elliott – €5m Decline in Market Value Last Season
Another player who faced difficulties last season is Harvey Elliott. Despite a commendable average of 0.88 goals and assists per 90 minutes for Liverpool, the 22-year-old managed only 822 minutes on the pitch. With Mohamed Salah firmly entrenched in the right-wing position following a contract extension, Liverpool may be open to selling Elliott for the right offer. His market value has stagnated at €35m since mid-2022 and even dipped slightly last season, indicating his need for regular playtime. If given the chance this season, we could see his market value shoot up.
Darwin Núñez – €25m Decline in Market Value Last Season
Elliott isn’t the only player likely to depart Anfield this summer. Reports suggest that Darwin Núñez could also be on the move. Although the Uruguayan forward’s record of 0.80 goals and assists per 90 minutes is solid, his failure to secure a consistent starting role has cast doubt on his €85m transfer from last season. This may seem harsh, as he has consistently demonstrated his goal-scoring ability. Nevertheless, for various reasons, he may not fit Liverpool’s current vision for their attack. What could be misfortune for Liverpool might be a golden opportunity for another club willing to secure him at the right price.
Christopher Nkunku – €30m Decline in Market Value Last Season
As Chelsea looks to trim their oversized squad, Christopher Nkunku is a likely candidate for departure. Signed from RB Leipzig amid high expectations, the French winger has faced challenges due to persistent injuries and the chaotic transfer strategy at Chelsea over the past two seasons. However, despite these setbacks, Nkunku has shown he can still perform at a high level, boasting an average of 0.73 goals and assists per 90 minutes since joining Chelsea. A clever club may find a bargain if they can secure him for a reasonable price and ensure he’s consistently on the pitch.
Jack Grealish – €32m Decline in Market Value Last Season
Last but not least is Jack Grealish, one of the Premier League’s most recognizable figures, who finds himself in need of a change this season. Manchester City broke the Premier League transfer record to bring Grealish on board for €117.5m in 2021, but he has struggled to adapt to Pep Guardiola’s tactical framework. Last season, he accumulated only 715 minutes of league play, causing his market value to drop by €32m, bringing it down to €28m. While there’s debate over his capacity to help another top club clinch significant trophies, his credentials as a capable forward are indisputable. If he finds a team willing to grant him a prominent role this season, Grealish could see a rapid resurgence in his career.
