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The transfer period feels like waiting for the release of a favourite TV series – filled with drama, uncertainty, and an intensity that makes the wait even more thrilling.
The 2025 summer transfer window has placed African footballers firmly in the global spotlight. From substantial moves to minute sagas, players from the continent are not only participating but also driving the headlines.
Among the biggest stories are what I would term ‘the trinity’ – Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Mohammed Kudus. These three elite African talents are at different stages of their careers but remain pivotal to their respective clubs’ futures. It’s a reflection of the present reality and the shifting dynamics of the modern game, where African players are no longer considered risks, but prized assets.
Victor Osimhen:
The 26-year-old, loved by a battalion of football-crazy Nigerians, seems to have found heaven in an unusual setting – Turkey. His 2024/25 campaign at Galatasaray was nothing short of spectacular. On loan from Napoli, he netted 35 goals in 39 games, helped the Turkish giants to a domestic double, and became a fan favourite overnight.
This performance reignited interest from across Europe and, by extension, the Middle East – where the game is played for the love of it, but even more for the financial rewards. Surprisingly, or perhaps not – Galatasaray had the last bite of the cherry, as the Nigerian chose to stay committed to their cause, with the club activating his €75 million release clause, structured in staggered payments.
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Victor Osimhen to Galatasaray is a done deal! pic.twitter.com/aMB61bgvsp
However, Napoli, in an act reminiscent of a bitter ex-lover have instructed the Turkish club to ensure that the Nigerian isn’t sold to any Italian side for the next two years.
Osimhen’s decision to remain in Turkey signals a strategic career move that goes beyond football. At Napoli, despite winning Serie A and earning individual acclaim, his relationship with the club soured due to internal issues and contract disputes. Galatasaray, by contrast, offers him a central role, unwavering adulation, and consistent continental football through the Champions League.
But the broader implications are worth considering. Is this a step down competitively, or is it a move for longevity and personal peace?
From a tactical standpoint, Osimhen thrives as a physical, mobile No. 9 – traits Galatasaray builds its system around. The Turkish Süper Lig may not rank among Europe’s top five leagues, but it remains deeply competitive and financially potent. And without mincing words, this deal stands as one of the most significant signings in Turkish football history.
For Osimhen, a boy from the streets of Lagos – to be at the center of conversation every time the transfer window opens must feel like a father watching his child take their first step. Importantly, if injuries remain kind, he has a real chance to dominate and, potentially, return to a top-five league.
Ademola Lookman
During the 2023-24 campaign, Ademola Lookman was like a god walking among men – everything he touched turned to goals. On and off the pitch, he was something out of a storybook, earning the African Player of the Year award and sealing a historic hat-trick in the Europa League final with Atalanta. The next campaign wasn’t as fascinating for the team, but Lookman stayed true to his talent, scoring 15 goals in 31 league appearances.
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It wasn’t a campaign without blemish, as the forward had a public falling out with manager Gian Piero Gasperini after a disagreement over penalty duties. But despite this minor scratch, top clubs are still circling. Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United, Juventus, Atlético Madrid, and Inter Milan have all shown interest, with the latter seeming the most likely destination for Lookman. Reports in Italy place Atalanta’s asking fee around €60 to 65 million for the Nigerian, though Inter appear to be negotiating to lower the price.
Personally, Lookman is worth every penny. For a player who has reinvented himself across multiple leagues – England, Germany, Italy, his adaptability is a massive selling point. But Atalanta knows they must resolve the situation quickly, especially since Lookman’s former club, RB Leipzig, is entitled to a share of the sale.
Here’s the key: he needs the right tactical fit. At Inter Milan, he would likely operate in a 3-5-2 or 3-4-3 system with the freedom to attack, similar to what he experienced at the Stadio di Bergamo. Whatever decision he makes next, hopefully it doesn’t turn him into a classic case of ‘could-have-been.’
Mohammed Kudus
Among the three players, Mohammed Kudus has had the smoothest transfer so far. Tottenham secured the Ghanaian international from West Ham for £55 million, handing him a six-year contract in what they see as a long-term investment in creativity and goals.
Kudus impressed at West Ham with 13 goals and 12 assists in 65 matches, proving he could handle the Premier League’s pace and physicality. Even more impressively, he can play across multiple positions – attacking midfield, right wing, or even as a false nine.
His transfer has a taste of high-reward, low-risk for Spurs. Under manager Thomas Frank, Kudus fits into a team that is rebuilding and in need of intelligent, unpredictable attacking talent. His ability to carry the ball, break lines, and play key passes makes him a perfect fit for a progressive setup. He’s also just 24 years old, meaning the club could either build around him or cash in on a major future sale if he explodes into a superstar – which the odds seems to favour.
For Ghana, this move also strengthens their national team identity. The Nima-born star is fast becoming the face of Ghanaian football. His consistency in Europe and impact in top leagues raise the bar for younger talents from West Africa.
Spurs may not be immediate title contenders, but following their Europa League triumph over Man Utd, they offer Kudus a platform, patience, and tactical freedom. Undoubtedly, one of the smartest African transfers of the summer.
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