The $4M Midfielder: Kang Sang-yoon K League Transfer Value Tops the League in 2026
Jeonbuk's Kang Sang-yoon is now the K League's most valuable player at 3.5M euros. Discover the latest CIES transfer values and why Europe is watching.
A 3.5 million euro star is rising in Korea. Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors midfielder Kang Sang-yoon has been rated as the most expensive player in South Korea's top flight, signaling a shift in the league's market dynamics.
Kang Sang-yoon K League Transfer Value Reaches New Heights
According to the CIES Football Observatory, the 21-year-old talent's value has soared to 3.5 million euros (approx. $4.09 million). The research group released its global list on Thursday, covering 60 leagues worldwide, where FC Barcelona's Lamine Yamal took the top global spot at 343 million euros.
- 1st: Kang Sang-yoon (Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, 3.5M euros)
- 2nd: Lee Ho-jae (Pohang Steelers, 3.3M euros)
- 3rd: Shin Min-ha (Gangwon FC, 3M euros)
European Dreams for Jeonbuk's Midfield Engine
Kang's valuation follows a stellar 2025 season where he played 34 matches and helped Jeonbuk clinch both the league title and the Korea Cup. Former coach Gus Poyet praised his energy and speed, predicting the youngster's eventual leap to European football. His inclusion in the K League 1 Best XI for the first time marks a turning point in his professional career.
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