Is Richard Ríos the Most Valuable Foreign Star in Brazilian Football in 2025?
Palmeiras midfielder is on fire and drawing interest from Europe’s elite but he’s not No. 1 (yet)
Richard Ríos is having a breakout year with Palmeiras, and his value is soaring. The Colombian midfielder, one of the key players for club and country in 2025, has become a hot target for clubs like Atlético Madrid, Porto, and PSG all watching him closely ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.
Currently valued at €16 million (R$101 million), Ríos is among the top 3 most valuable foreign players in Brazilian football but he isn’t at the top just yet.
Top 3 Most Valuable Foreigners in Brazil (2025)
De La Cruz (Flamengo) – €18 million (R$114M)
Jhon Arias (Fluminense) – €17 million (R$108M)
Richard Ríos (Palmeiras) – €16 million (R$101M)
Ríos leads a wave of foreign stars redefining Brazilian football, and with his explosive form, he could soon overtake the top spot.
Richard Ríos: The Midfield Machine
At just 24, Ríos is shining in Abel Ferreira’s system combining physicality, technique, and high-press energy. His performances in the Copa Libertadores, Brasileirão, and for the Colombian national team have catapulted him into elite territory.
European scouts are impressed not only by his current level but by his sky-high ceiling. Among the clubs showing strong interest, Atlético Madrid appears to be leading the race, with coach Diego Simeone reportedly requesting the player personally.
Who Ranks Below Ríos?
Here are the Top 10 most valuable foreign players in Brazil for 2025, based on data from Transfermarkt:
| Rank | Player | Club | Market Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | De La Cruz | Flamengo | €18M (R$114M) |
| 2 | Jhon Arias | Fluminense | €17M (R$108M) |
| 3 | Richard Ríos | Palmeiras | €16M (R$101M) |
| 4 | Arrascaeta | Flamengo | €15M (R$95M) |
| 5 | Rodrigo Garro | Corinthians | €14M (R$75M) |
| 6 | Joaquín Piquerez | Palmeiras | €14M (R$75M) |
| 7 | Facundo Torres | Palmeiras | €14M (R$75M) |
| 8 | Aníbal Moreno | Palmeiras | €13M (R$70M) |
| 9 | Memphis Depay | Corinthians | €11M (R$63M) |
| 10 | Flaco López | Palmeiras | €11M (R$63M) |
What’s Next for Richard Ríos?
Palmeiras is unlikely to hold on to the Colombian for much longer. After the FIFA Club World Cup, Verdão is expected to listen to offers, especially if bids approach the €20 million mark. With Europe watching and Ríos thriving, his move seems inevitable it’s only a matter of when.
Final Word
Richard Ríos may not be the most valuable foreigner in Brazil yet, but if his form holds and he shines at the Club World Cup he could leap to the top of that list by the end of 2025.
