Top 5 of the biggest winter transfers of African players in history. Not a single Moroccan!

HIBAPRESS-RABAT-

The winter transfers market is underway and already five larger winter transfers of African players, marking both financial records and turns in the career of these exceptional athletes, has just taken place. Here is what AfricaFoot says:

1 Omar Marmoush: the Manchester City pharaoh

Transfer amount: 75 million euros (+ 5 million bonuses)

Egyptian striker Omar Marmoush exploded on the European scene with his transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt to Manchester City in January 2025. At only 24 years old, Marmoush quickly proved his value on the ground, becoming a centerpiece of the PEP system Guardiola.

Omar Marmoush course, transfer costs, remuneration and more

With its speed, technique and its sense of goal, it has not only become the most expensive Winter African recruit in history, but it is also considered a future pillar of the modern attacker. Its meteoric ascent opens incredible perspectives for African football, showing that African talents can compete at the highest level.

#2 Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang: the Gabonese who conquered London

Transfer amount: 63.75 million euros

The last day of the January 2018 transfer window marked a turning point for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who leaves Borussia Dortmund for Arsenal. By becoming the most expensive recruit in the history of the Gunners, Aubameyang imposed its brand from its beginnings thanks to its speed and its scorer instinct.

Course by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Transfers costs, remuneration and more

After winning the price for the top scorer of the Premier League, he proved that he was up to the investment made by the club. With his charisma and his personality on the field, he is a model for young African players aspiring to shine in Europe.

#3 Cédric Bakambu: the unexpected traveler

Transfer amount: 40 million euros

In a surprising movement in winter 2018, Cédric Bakambu left Villarreal to join the Beijing Guoan. This unexpected transfer to Chinese football has not only made waves because of its sum, but also due to the evolution of the transfer market in Asia.

Cédric Bakambu course, transfer costs, remuneration and more

Bakambu has proven that he could perform in a completely different environment by adding an international dimension to his career. This daring choice has opened the doors to other African players, showing that Asian leagues are now a viable option for African talents.

#4 Wilfried Bony : Le Lion de Manchester

Transfer amount: 32.3 million euros (can reach 36.5 million euros with bonus)

During his transfer to Manchester City in January 2015, Wilfried Bony became the most expensive African footballer of the time. While he was preparing for the African Cup of Nations, Bony made a bold decision that propelled his career on the European scene.

Wilfried Bony’s opinion on Simon Adingra’s future in Brighton FC

Recognized for his physical power and his ability to mark in key moments, he immediately impressed. Although its beginnings in City were mixed, its passage to Swansea City remains emblematic of its raw talent and its potential, inspiring many African attackers to dream big.

#5 Kamaldeen Sulemana: the new Ghanaian star

Transfer amount: 25 million euros

Transferred from Stade Rennais to Southampton in February 2023, Kamaldeen Sulemana is already talking about him on the European scene. At only 21, he was praised for his devastating dribbles and his creativity on the side. His four and a half year contract with Southampton marks the start of a promising career in the Premier League.

Kamaldeen sulemana course, transfer costs, remuneration and more

As a young talent, Sulemana represents a new generation of African footballers seeking to shake off major European clubs and strengthen the presence of African players in the most competitive leagues.

Summary