515 Player Updates
As Germany approaches its winter break, Transfermarkt has announced updated market values for 515 players in the 2. Bundesliga. This significant update marks a historic moment for the country’s second division. Hertha Berlin’s 16-year-old prodigy, Kennet Eichhorn, has seen his valuation soar to €20 million, a remarkable leap of €14 million, solidifying his position as the league’s most valuable player. The list of the most valuable players in the 2. Bundesliga is heavily populated by young talent, with Eichhorn leading the pack.
Eichhorn has shattered multiple records this season, becoming the youngest player, the youngest starter, and the youngest goal scorer in the history of the 2. Bundesliga and the DFB Pokal. His market value also sets a new milestone, surpassing the €22 million reached by Nürnberger Stefanos Tzismas in 2024/25, even though Tzismas had already been signed by Brighton at that time, and Eichhorn’s rise comes without any transfer fees from other clubs.
“Eichhorn is an exceptional talent,” remarked Transfermarkt Market Value Coordinator Tobias Kröger. “Last summer, many Bundesliga clubs were eager to acquire the then 15-year-old. Now 16, he plays a vital role for Hertha, garnering interest from top European clubs. His €20 million valuation reflects the significant attention he attracts. Under the guidance of head coach Stefan Leitl, Eichhorn has become indispensable. Despite his age, he boasts a notable physical presence at 186 cm, complemented by outstanding technique and keen decision-making. His valuation places him alongside Bayern’s starlet Lennart Karl and national team players Deniz Undav, David Raum, and Nadiem Amiri (the Bundesliga update is due on December 19).
Key Players to Watch in the 2. Bundesliga: Onyeka, Ayhan, Aseko, and Seimen
Another promising talent is VfL Bochum’s 18-year-old midfielder Francis Onyeka, currently on loan from Bayer Leverkusen. Onyeka has recorded four goals and an assist in 13 2. Bundesliga matches this season. “He possesses remarkable technique and has excelled for both Bochum and youth national teams,” Kröger said. “It will be intriguing to see his next moves and if he gets a chance at Bayer Leverkusen.” His market value has risen from €1 million to €6 million, making him one of the most valuable players in Germany’s second tier.
At the same time, Schalke 04 looks poised for a return to the Bundesliga, largely thanks to defender Mertcan Ayhan. “The 19-year-old center-back is the latest talent from the Knappenschmiede,” stated Transfermarkt Market Value Admin Julius Weißenstein. “Having started the season primarily on the bench, he has recently become a crucial element of the league’s top defense.” This performance has warranted a market value increase of €3.6 million to €4 million, the highest rise among Schalke players.
Notable mentions also go to Paderborn’s goalkeeper Dennis Seimen and Hannover’s midfielder Noel Aseko. “Dennis Seimen is undoubtedly a top goalkeeper,” said Paderborn coach Ralf Kettemann. “He has consistently delivered strong performances as a starter.” One of the top goalkeeper prospects in German football, Seimen has seen his market value climb from €3 million to €7 million, with expectations that he will take over from Alexander Nübel next season.
Similarly, Aseko is on loan from Bayern Munich to Hannover 96, attracting interest from several Bundesliga and Premier League clubs. “We have been monitoring Noel’s development for a while, and his potential is immense,” said Hannover CEO Marus Mann. “After a challenging previous season, he has finally started to showcase his skill.” The German U20 international’s market value has increased by €3 million to €6 million.
Understanding Transfermarkt Market Values
Transfermarkt market values are established based on various pricing models, heavily influenced by the Transfermarkt community, where members actively discuss and analyze player values. It’s important to note that these market values are not directly tied to transfer fees.
The aim is not to project a specific price but rather to estimate a player’s value in an open market, considering individual transfer modalities and situational conditions. Transfermarkt does not utilize an algorithm in this evaluation (for further insight, the detailed market value definition is available here).
