Top 5 Most Expensive African Football Players in History

Over the years, African nations have produced some of the most extraordinary football talent the world has seen. From electric wingers to rock-solid defenders, players from this continent bring a unique blend of skill, athleticism, and charisma to the pitch. It’s no surprise that many of them have made a lasting impact on the biggest stages in world football.

Today, top African stars are not just competing in Europe’s elite leagues—they’re thriving. Their talents have earned them moves to some of the biggest clubs in the world, often for staggering transfer fees. In the modern game, transfer fees have become a major talking point, often used to measure a player’s value or potential. For clubs, these high-profile signings are more than just about performance—they're investments in winning trophies and boosting global recognition.

African players are no exception. In fact, their rise has been remarkable. In recent years, more and more African footballers have broken into top-tier European teams, not only showcasing their skills but also proving their ability to change games and seasons.

Behind each transfer is a story—not just of personal ambition, but of global demand. Clubs around the world are constantly searching for players who are dynamic, versatile, and resilient—all traits that African players consistently bring to the table.

Let’s take a closer look at how African players are shaping modern football and making their mark on the global stage.

Five African football players with highest transfer fees

5. Achraf Hakimi – Inter Milan to PSG (€68 million)

Achraf Hakimi is a well-known right-back who began his professional career with Spanish giants Real Madrid. After gaining valuable experience there, he went on to shine at Inter Milan. His impressive performances caught the attention of Paris Saint-Germain, who signed the Moroccan international in 2021 for a transfer fee of €68 million.

That move made Hakimi one of the most expensive African players in football history.

4. Bryan Mbeumo – Brentford to Manchester United (€71 million)

Bryan Mbeumo is one of Manchester United’s latest signings and now ranks among the most expensive African players in history. After a standout 2024–25 season with Brentford, the Cameroon international caught the eye of the Red Devils, who secured his transfer for a hefty fee of €65 million, plus an additional €6 million in potential add-ons. Mbeumo has signed a five-year contract with the Premier League giants, marking a major step forward in his career.

3. Omar Marmoush – Eintracht Frankfurt to Manchester City (€75 million)

Egyptian international Omar Marmoush joined the English Premier League in the January 2025 transfer window after Manchester City signed him from Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt. The deal was worth €70 million, with an additional €5 million in potential add-ons. Marmoush had been in outstanding form, delivering a string of impressive performances that caught the attention of the Premier League champions.

2. Victor Osimhen – LOSC Lille to Napoli (€80 million)

In 2020, Serie A side Napoli signed Victor Osimhen from French club Lille for €70 million plus €10 million in add-ons, making him the second most expensive African footballer in history at the time. Recently, Osimhen made a high-profile move to Turkish giants Galatasaray for a reported fee of €75 million.

1. Nicolas Pepe – LOSC Lille to Arsenal (€80 million)

Nicolas Pépé became the most expensive African footballer in history when Arsenal signed him from Lille for €80 million in 2019. The transfer also set a new record as the highest fee Arsenal had ever paid for a player. He was later loaned to Nice in 2022 after struggling to make an impact in the Premier League.

Cover Credits - Sky Sports