Victor Osimhen Joins Galatasaray in Top Ten Expensive Transfers

Rumored transfer fee: €75 million

Victor Osimhen to Galatasaray enters top ten most expensive African list

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Africa is one of the most passionate regions for football, boasting millions of fans who passionately support their favorite teams. Although domestic leagues in Africa face challenges compared to top European leagues—due to issues like infrastructure and funding—some of the continent’s most gifted players have emerged in recent times. The African Cup of Nations (AFCON) attracts global attention, with the next tournament scheduled to start this December in Morocco.

Liverpool star Mohamed Salah is eager to clinch his first AFCON title after finishing as a runner-up in 2017 and 2021, while Morocco has the highest valuation among African nations on Transfermarkt at €370 million. The Ivory Coast is determined to defend its title, and Victor Osimhen is poised to lead Nigeria to victory. Osimhen was involved in a major transfer saga this summer, and Galatasaray recently confirmed his permanent signing for a club record fee. But where does this deal rank among the most expensive African players ever? Let’s take a look.

All-time Most Expensive African Players

The record transfer fee for an African player remains Arsenal’s €80 million signing of Nicolas Pépé. After an impressive spell at Lille, his time in North London did not go as planned, eventually resulting in a free transfer to Trabzonspor four years later. Osimhen currently stands second, having been acquired by Napoli for €78.9 million from Lille in 2020; however, his move to Galatasaray will not surpass that figure.

Galatasaray is set to pay Napoli €75 million, with the payment structured over a five-year period. This total matches Omar Marmoush’s recent €75 million transfer from Frankfurt to Manchester City, as well as Bryan Mbuemo’s move to Manchester United this summer. The current top five also includes Achraf Hakimi’s €68 million transfer from Inter Milan to PSG and Riyad Mahrez’s €67.8 million move to Manchester City. Additionally, Mohammed Kudus’ transfer to Tottenham from West Ham for €63.8 million has secured him a spot in the top ten.