Over the years, African footballers have commanded some of the highest transfer fees in football history, setting records and redefining how African talent is valued in Europe. From lightning-fast wingers to powerful strikers and attacking fullbacks, these deals show the growing influence of African players on the global stage. Here’s a look at the most expensive African footballers ever, ranked by reported transfer fees.
1. Bryan Mbeumo: Cameroon – €81 million
Transfer: Brentford to Manchester United
Bryan Mbeumo became the most expensive African footballer in history when Manchester United paid €81 million for him in 2025. Known for his blistering pace and sharp finishing, the Cameroonian forward had impressed in the Premier League, making United willing to break the bank to secure his signature.
2. Nicolas Pépé: Ivory Coast – €80 million
Transfer: Lille to Arsenal
Arsenal’s €80 million signing of Pépé from Lille in 2019 made him one of Europe’s hottest wingers at the time. His eye-catching season in Ligue 1, full of goals and assists, convinced Arsenal to pay a record fee for the Ivorian.
3. Victor Osimhen: Nigeria – €78.9 million
Transfer: Lille to Napoli
Napoli broke their club transfer record in 2020 to sign Victor Osimhen for nearly €79 million. The Nigerian striker’s power, speed, and aerial ability made him a standout performer in Serie A from the start.
4. Omar Marmoush: Egypt – €75 million
Transfer: Eintracht Frankfurt to Manchester City
Omar Marmoush’s versatility and attacking talent earned him a €75 million move to Manchester City in 2025. The Egyptian forward quickly became one of the most expensive African footballers ever, drawing attention from one of Europe’s strongest sides.
5. Victor Osimhen: Nigeria – €75 million
Transfer: Napoli to Galatasaray
Osimhen appears again on this list after Galatasaray paid €75 million for his transfer in 2025. The deal underlined how sought-after the Nigerian striker has become, solidifying his place among the continent’s elite footballers.
6. Achraf Hakimi: Morocco – €68 million
Transfer: Inter Milan to Paris Saint-Germain
PSG snapped up Achraf Hakimi in 2021 for €68 million. The Moroccan fullback immediately made an impact with his speed and attacking runs, becoming one of the most expensive African defenders ever.
7. Riyad Mahrez: Algeria – €67.8 million
Transfer: Leicester City to Manchester City
Riyad Mahrez joined Manchester City in 2018 after leading Leicester City to a historic Premier League title. His elegance on the ball and knack for scoring key goals justified the €67.8 million fee and cemented his place among Africa’s top transfers.
8. Mohammed Kudus: Ghana – €63.8 million
Transfer: West Ham United to Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham spent €63.8 million in 2025 to sign Mohammed Kudus. The Ghanaian midfielder impressed with his creativity, dribbling, and ability to influence big matches, making him one of the continent’s most valuable players.
9. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang: Gabon – €63.8 million
Transfer: Borussia Dortmund to Arsenal
Arsenal paid €63.8 million for Aubameyang in 2018 after years of goal-scoring brilliance in Germany. The Gabonese striker quickly became a key figure in North London, delivering goals that justified his hefty price tag.
10. Naby Keïta: Guinea – €60 million
Transfer: RB Leipzig to Liverpool
Liverpool signed Naby Keïta for €60 million in 2018 as part of their midfield rebuild. The Guinean’s energy, pressing, and forward runs made him a vital piece in Jurgen Klopp’s system, earning him a spot among the most expensive African footballers in history.
