According to the latest figures released by renowned German-based football information provider, Transfermarkt, Nigerian footballers dominate the list of most valuable footballers in the world.
Leading the pack is Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian and Napoli striker, whose market value exceeds €100 million. Osimhen’s impressive performances last season helped guide Napoli to their first league title in over 30 years.
The 24-year-old clinched the Serie A Golden Boot with a record-breaking 26 goals in 32 appearances, making him the highest-scoring African player in the league with 47 goals, surpassing George Weah’s record. Osimhen’s exceptional achievements has seen him linked to top clubs worldwide, including Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid.
Following closely is Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian and Atlanta BC winger, valued at €30 million. Lookman’s standout performances last season contributed to his team’s top-five finish in Serie A. The 25-year-old, who recently switched his international allegiance to Nigeria, has caught the eye of several prominent clubs.
Alex Iwobi, the Nigerian and Everton midfielder, holds a market value of €28 million. Iwobi played a pivotal role in helping Everton escape relegation, registering two goals and seven assists in the Premier League last season. Currently, in the last year of his contract, negotiations for a new deal with Everton are underway.
Wilfred Ndidi, the Nigerian and Leicester midfielder, is valued at €25 million. Despite Leicester’s relegation to the Championship last season, Ndidi’s talent has not gone unnoticed. Several Premier League clubs have shown interest in the 25-year-old, following in the footsteps of his teammates James Maddison and Youri Tielemans.
Other Nigerian players making waves in the transfer market include Taiwo Awoniyi, the Nigerian and Nottingham Forest striker (€25 million); Samuel Chukwueze, the Nigerian and Villarreal winger (€20 million), who has attracted attention from clubs like Real Madrid and AC Milan; Gift Orban, the Nigerian and Gent striker (€20 million); Terem Moffi, the Nigerian and OGC Nice forward (€20 million); Kelechi Iheanacho, the Nigerian and Leicester striker (€18 million); and Umar Sadiq, the Nigerian and Real Sociedad striker (€18 million).
