NXGN 2024: The 50 best wonderkids in football Part 4

23. Lucas Bergvall (Djurgarden)

Swedish football is currently facing challenges following a disappointing Euro 2024 qualifying campaign. However, there's optimism that a new generation of talent, including 18-year-old Lucas Bergvall, could revitalize the nation's football scene. Bergvall, who made his debut in the Swedish second division with Brommapojkarna less than two years ago, has quickly risen through the ranks.

He impressed during his time with Djurgarden in the top flight before securing an £8.5m ($10.8m) move to Tottenham. Despite interest from Barcelona, Bergvall opted for Tottenham, where his skill in transitioning from defense to attack in central midfield aligns well with Ange Postecoglou's high-tempo playing style.

22. Desire Doue (Rennes)

Rennes has been remarkably successful in producing talented players from its academy, with notable names like Ousmane Dembele, Eduardo Camavinga, and Mathys Tel. Desire Doue appears to be the next promising talent from the French club, showing great potential in his first two seasons at Roazhon Park.

As a versatile midfielder with strong attacking instincts and proficiency with both feet, the 18-year-old has already made nearly 70 appearances for Rennes. Last summer, Doue attracted interest from Barcelona and PSG, and in January, Bayer Leverkusen's €20m (£17m/$22m) bid for him was turned down. It's likely that he'll move on this summer, with Borussia Dortmund and Newcastle closely monitoring his development.

20Luis Guilherme (Palmeiras)

While Endrick grabs the spotlight at Palmeiras, another product of their academy has emerged, having spent his entire youth career alongside the highly touted Endrick. Luis Guilherme, a rapid winger known for his blistering pace—he once reached 36 km/h in a match—is predominantly deployed on the right flank, where he can utilize his deadly left foot.

However, he's also versatile enough to play centrally. At just 18 years old, Guilherme has drawn comparisons to Brazilian legend Rivaldo. Liverpool has been frequently linked with him, but Manchester United, Chelsea, and Real Madrid are also reportedly keen on securing his services.

19. Lewis Miley (Newcastle)

Lewis Miley has been highly regarded within Newcastle's youth ranks for some time, but his rapid ascent into the first team this season has surprised many. Despite being just 17 years old, he has become a regular starter since his Premier League debut in November. Manager Eddie Howe has praised Miley's exceptional footballing intelligence, which was evident in standout performances during the Champions League group stage, particularly against Paris Saint-Germain at Parc des Princes.

Miley has already etched his name in Newcastle's history books as their youngest-ever Premier League goal-scorer. With a new long-term contract signed in January, he is poised to be a cornerstone of the club's ambitious project for years to come, representing their commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.

18. Arthur Vermeeren (Atletico Madrid)

While Belgium's renowned 'Golden Generation' may be reaching the twilight of their careers, the future looks bright for the Red Devils, thanks to the emergence of several young talents. One standout prospect is Arthur Vermeeren, whose potential was validated when Atletico Madrid secured his services for an initial fee of €18m (£15.4m/$19.5m) in January, beating competition from Manchester United and Barcelona.

Vermeeren caught Atleti's attention with his impressive performances for Royal Antwerp, contributing significantly to their Belgian league-and-cup double triumph in the 2022-23 season. Despite his tender age of 19, he hardly missed any game time after breaking into the lineup under Mark van Bommel in November of that campaign. Vermeeren, a deep-lying playmaker known for his physical prowess, has already earned caps for the Belgian national team since his debut in October 2023. With his seamless transition to Spanish football, he is poised to become a vital asset for Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid in the near future.

17. Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona)

Following Pau Cubarsi's standout performance for Barcelona against Getafe in February, his teammate Joao Cancelo took to Instagram to praise the teenager's mature display, dubbing him "Franz Beckenbauer Cubarsi." Cubarsi's impressive performances have caught the attention of many, not just Cancelo.

Hailing from La Masia, Cubarsi is the latest prodigy to establish himself in the Barcelona lineup. Ronald Araujo likened him to Gerard Pique, while manager Xavi has lauded his precision in passing, stating that "he never misses a pass." Barcelona's next priority is to secure Cubarsi's future, as Manchester City and Chelsea have expressed interest in signing the young Catalan if the opportunity arises.

16. Gabriel Moscardo (Paris Saint-Germain - loan at Corinthians)

The growing significance of an elite defensive midfielder in modern football is evident, prompting PSG to act swiftly when Gabriel Moscardo became available for just €20m (£17m/$22m) in January.

Despite Moscardo's need for foot surgery, which has ruled him out for the rest of the season, PSG saw his potential as a game-changing No.6 and sealed the deal. The 18-year-old's talent has drawn comparisons to Declan Rice, particularly after his breakthrough season at Corinthians. Currently back on loan at Corinthians as he recuperates, Moscardo is seen as Brazil's potential long-term successor to Casemiro, a testament to his burgeoning reputation, despite his limited senior appearances, numbering only 25.

15. Guillaume Restes (Toulouse)

Thierry Henry, manager of the France Under-21s, has heaped praise on Guillaume Restes, the emerging goalkeeper from Toulouse, drawing comparisons to the legendary Fabien Barthez. Despite being only 19 years old, Restes has impressed with his performances, showcasing the qualities of a seasoned Ligue 1 goalkeeper. With his exceptional agility and composure on the ball, Restes embodies the modern goalkeeper. Already regarded as one of the top goalkeepers in Ligue 1, it's only a matter of time before his talent gains recognition across Europe.