@article{article_1700667, title={Market Value and Transfer Fees in Youth Football: Determinants, Correlations, and the Role of the Relative Age Effect}, journal={Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart Üniversitesi Spor Bilimleri Dergisi}, volume={8}, pages={1–14}, year={2025}, author={Subak, Gülhan Erdem and Atlı, Ahmet and Gözeller, Ahmet Buğra}, keywords={Bağıl Yaş Etkisi (RAE), Gençlik Futbol Ekonomisi, Oyuncu Gelişimi ve Gözlem, Yetenek Değerleme Önyargıları}, abstract={ABSTRACT Purpose: This article aims to examine the determinants influencing market value and transfer fees in youth football, assess the correlations between player characteristics and economic valuations, and elucidate how the Relative Age Effect (RAE) shapes these dynamics. By integrating findings from sports economics and developmental psychology, the study seeks to offer a comprehensive understanding of how intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect the financial dimensions of youth football. Method: This study is a review article that aims to shed light on the subject by examining the relevant literature. published studies were identified and evaluated through a systematic search using keywords and subject headings across academic databases including Google Scholar, PubMed and Web of Science. Results: The findings of the study highlight the complexity of valuation processes in the football industry, where both quantifiable performance indicators and latent systemic biases such as the RAE jointly shape early career trajectories and economic outcomes. While relatively older players often benefit from early selection advantages, longitudinal data indicate that these advantages may not necessarily translate into long-term success. In contrast, relatively younger players who persevere despite early disadvantages frequently exhibit greater psychological resilience and more consistent long-term performance. Conclusion: In conclusion, from a practical perspective, this review advocates for reforms in scouting and player development practices by promoting delayed selection, holistic player assessment, and dynamic feedback systems that consider individual developmental trajectories. These strategies have the potential to foster more equitable opportunities and minimize the misallocation of resources.}, number={2}, publisher={Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart Üniversitesi}