The biggest move of January so far has seen one of Africa’s rising stars, Egypt’s Omar Marmoush, make a high-profile switch to Manchester City after a sensational start to the season with Eintracht Frankfurt. Marmoush leaves Germany as the Bundesliga’s second-highest scorer, trailing only Harry Kane, and has truly blossomed into one of Europe’s most dangerous and versatile attackersover the past year. With his pace, intelligent positioning, and clinical finishing, he seems like a perfect fit for Pep Guardiola’s system, and should provide an immediate upgrade over players like Jérémy Doku and Jack Grealish. At just 25, Marmoush is set to take over from Mohamed Salah as the Premier League’s top Egyptian talent and could become one of the foundational pieces in Guardiola’s latest City project.
Replacing Marmoush at Frankfurt is 22-year-old Elye Wahi, a forward from Marseille who represented France at the summer Olympics but remains eligible to play for Ivory Coast. Wahi has big shoes to fill, but he proved his potential last season, scoring 19 goals in 33 Ligue 1 matches for Montpellier, showing he can shine in one of Europe’s top leagues. Meanwhile, another Ivorian, Africa Cup of Nations winner Seko Fofana, returns to France, signing with Stade Rennais after an 18-month stint in Saudi Arabia. He is expected to be a fantastic addition for the Ligue 1 club struggling to find form.
Still in his prime at 29, Fofana was one of Africa’s finest midfielders during his time at Lens, and his €20 million move to Rennes is seen as a major coup for the club. His international teammate, Emmanuel Agbadou, missed out on the AFCON triumph last year but will be eager to reassert himself on the international stage after joining Wolves from Stade de Reims in a €20 million deal. Romain Esse (Millwall > Crystal Palace), Brice Samba (Lens > Rennes), Assane Diao (Betis > Como) and Gift Orban (Lyon > Hoffenheim) are some of the other high-profile African movers of the window so far.
At 32, Wilfried Zaha still has plenty to offer, and his move to Major League Soccer with Charlotte FC could provide a fresh start after his underwhelming spell at Lyon was cut short.
As the winter transfer window closes, the football world shifts its focus to the summer window, gearing up for another exciting round of player movements. European clubs are eagerly preparing to strengthen their squads, with scouts, analysts, and football directorskeeping a close eye on potential signings until the end of the season. Among the most sought-after players are Africa’s footballing gems, whose standout performances have drawn significant attention from top clubs.
With millions on the line, the stage is set for fierce bidding wars and emotional farewells. The January 2025 transfer window saw the English Premier League flexing its financial power once again, and with the summer transfer season fast approaching, the stakes are higher than ever. African players, in particular, are under the spotlight, as their market value continues to rise following their impressive on-field performances.
Which African players could move in the summer of 2025?
With the summer transfer window on the horizon, the football world is preparing for a major shake-up. This article takes a closer look at some of the top players who could be available on free transfers, assessing their current form, potential impact at new clubs, and the implications of their departures for their current teams. The list features a mix of rising young talents and seasoned stars who have left their mark at top clubs. Here’s a deeper dive into the players who could help redefine the future of football.
Emerging talents
Manchester United are considering Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri as a potential alternative for the left-back position. Despite a challenging season for Wolves, Ait-Nouri has stood out, earning a place in the Algerian national team over the past two years. The 23-year-old made the switch from France’s youth teams in 2023, as he holds dual nationality. Known for his versatility, Ait-Nouri has excelled both as a left-back and a left wing-back for Wolves, with coach Amorim appreciating his flexibility and intelligent movement.
Ghanaian star Mohammed Kudus of West Ham United has attracted the attention of three Premier League giants: Liverpool, Arsenal, and Newcastle United. Since joining from Ajax in the summer of 2023, Kudus has quickly become one of West Ham’s most valuable assets. His ability to excel in various attacking positions, along with his goal-scoring and creative abilities, has made him a highly sought-after target. The 24-year-old has adapted well to English football, contributing with key goals and assists. Though his contract runs until 2028, top clubs are undeterred by the long-term deal and continue to pursue him.
Brighton and Hove Albion winger Simon Adingra has been linked with a move away from the Premier League club this summer, with Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur reportedly interested. The 23-year-old has impressed at Brighton, and it’s no surprise that top clubs are eager to secure his services. Both Arsenal and Tottenham are in need of additional depth in wide areas, and Adingra’s qualities would enhance their squads. He has also been previously linked with Chelsea, making him a highly coveted prospect for the London clubs.
Key players with significant upside
Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba has been linked with moves to Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Manchester United. The 21-year-old moved to Europe from Cameroon in 2022, joining French side Lille, before making the switch to Premier League club Brighton a year and a half later. Baleba signed a long-term contract upon his arrival in England, which runs until 2028 with the option for an additional year. Despite interest from top clubs, the youngmidfielder has expressed no immediate desire to leave and remains focused on continuing his development at Brighton.
Manchester United have entered the race to sign Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, joining Liverpool, Newcastle, and Arsenal in pursuit of the 25-year-old. Mbeumo, who arrived from French club Troyes in 2019 for a club-record fee, could significantly increase his wages with a move to a larger club, and Brentford may entertain lucrative offers. Since his Premier League debut in 2021, Mbeumo has steadily risen as a standout, versatile attacker capable of making an impact in any side. With his prime years ahead of him, Mbeumo’s technical ability, quick touch, explosive acceleration, and pace make him a dangerous player—particularly when cutting in from the right wing to shoot or create chances. He is also
capable of playing effectively on the left wing or centrally in support of a striker. Liverpool fans have long considered him as a potential future replacement for Mohamed Salah, but with several top Premier League clubs now tracking him, they may face competition. Mbeumo’s dynamic and match-changing skills would elevate Arsenal, Manchester United, and Newcastle United.
Established stars
Edmond Tapsoba, a 25-year-old center-back for Bayer Leverkusen, has become one of the most sought-after defenders in European football. His stellar performances last season, where he featured in 46 matches, have made him a key figure in Xabi Alonso’s squad. Known for his defensive solidity and leadership in the Bundesliga, Tapsoba has attracted interest from top clubs eager to bolster their defense. Bayer Leverkusen recognizes his value and is determined not to let him go for less than his true market worth. The club has set a steep release price, aware of Tapsoba’s growing appeal. His well-rounded defensive skills, combined with his ability to play out from the back with precise passing, make him a highly desirable prospect for teams seeking modern, versatile defenders. Tapsoba’s adaptability
and maturity on the field ensure that he remains a priority for Europe’s elite clubs. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly among several Premier League clubs interested in Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface. Chelsea, Arsenal, and Aston Villa have also been offered the chance to sign the 24-year-old, who was on the brink of completing a high-profile transfer to Al-Nassr in recent days. However, the move to the Saudi Pro League collapsed due to an injury, with the club unwilling to wait for his recovery.
Boniface joined Leverkusen in the summer of 2023 and quickly established himself as a key player in Xabi Alonso’s successful side. When asked about the transfer rumors, Boniface commented, “It’s always flattering when big clubs show interest, but my focus right now is 100% on Bayer Leverkusen.” The striker is now focused on regaining his peak form after his time on the sidelines.
Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey could be a player to watch in the coming months as uncertainty surrounds his contract and potential offers from other clubs. The Ghana international remains an important figure for Arsenal, and it’s likely that he could continue to contribute to Mikel Arteta’s squad for at least another year or two. If Partey maintains his current form, he would attract significant interest from other clubs. Juventus is reportedly ready to offer him a three-year deal should he decide not to extend his stay in North London.
Barcelona, who are in need of a #6, are also keeping an eye on his situation, while Atletico Madrid could be open to bringing him back.
The elite players who could shake up the market
Victor Osimhen is one of Europe’s most prolific goal scorers in recent years, boasting a dynamic and captivating skillset for a striker. Known for his relentless movement behind defenders, he consistently finds space and positions himself in dangerous areas. His clinical finishing allows him to score from various angles, positions, and distances. Even when not in possession, Osimhen keeps defenses on the edge with his runs. His physical attributes are a perfect fit for a No. 9: sharp, athletic, and smooth in his movements, with an explosive acceleration and impressive aerial ability. There’s no doubt that Osimhen carries the aura of a top-tier star. Sources suggest that Manchester United may be interested in signing him. Currently under contract at Napoli until June 2027, Osimhen’s release clause will come into effect in the summer, making any potential deal far from cheap. While clubs like Arsenal, PSG, and Chelsea have all been in need of a striker, they all passed on pursuing Osimhen last summe.
Mohamed Salah: The End of an Era at Anfield? Liverpool fans may soon face a daunting reality as Mohamed Salah, their star forward, enters the final months of his contract. Despite being the team’s top scorer and propelling Liverpool to the Premier League’s summit, the 32-year-old Egyptian has confirmed that contract talks have stalled. With no extension on the horizon, Salah could be set to leave England, potentially closing a remarkable chapter in Premier League history. His legendary status at Liverpool is already secure, regardless of whether they win the title this season, but with rumors linking him to Al-Hilal or Paris Saint-Germain, fans in Merseyside will be anxiously awaiting news in the coming days and weeks.
What’s at stake for clubs and players
The summer of 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for many top African football stars, with World Cup qualification and the AFCON on the horizon. As players’ contracts near expiration, clubs are under pressure to either secure extensions or risk losing these valuable assets on free transfers. Players like Calvin Bassey, Carney Chukwuemeka, Chuba Akpom, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Boubacar Kamara, Ademola Lookman, Said Benrahma, Taiwo Awoniyi, Emmanuel Dennis, and Kelechi Iheanacho have the potential to dramatically influence the landscape of European football. The coming transfer window promises to be one of the most thrilling and unpredictable in recent memory, and it will be fascinating to see who stays, who moves, and how the summer unfolds. For fans, the potential moves of these talented players will undoubtedly dominate the conversation, as clubs brace for what could be a game-changing transfer season.
Elume Raymond™ is a seasoned sports writer with more than a decade of experience in the field. He leverages data and analytics to deliver in-depth analysis across a wide range of sports events and topics, from regional competitions to global tournaments. Passionate about sports, Elume Raymond™ is dedicated to sharing his enthusiasm with his audience, offering captivating stories and unique perspectives that engage and inspire.