seven coveted African footballers
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The summer football transfer market opened in early June and will end at the end of August, in most of the major European leagues. Some African players seem particularly coveted during this transfer window. Here are seven.
Patson Daka (Zambia)
Author of two superb seasons with Red Bull Salzburg, the striker arouses much envy, especially on the side of England. It must be said that the Chipolopolo, author of 51 goals in 59 Austrian Championship matches since the summer of 2019, ticks a lot of boxes: he is young (22 years old), versatile and perfectible. But his contract ends in 2024. The contenders for a transfer will therefore have to drop at least thirty million euros to recruit him.
Youssef En-Nesiry (Morocco)
The same goes for the Moroccan. He came out of a very good year with Sevilla FC, having scored 18 times in the Spanish Championship. On the other hand, the 24-year-old center-forward has a lease in Andalusia which runs until 2025. Which clubs will be ready to drop forty million euros to attract the former resident of Malaga and Leganes?
Franck Kessié (Ivory Coast)
The 24-year-old midfielder is in a strong position to extend with AC Milan or look elsewhere. Indeed, he will be free in the summer of 2022. Author of a new solid season, the Ivorian could be tempted to leave, after six years in Italy. Will the prospect of playing in the Champions League persuade him to stay with the Milanese?
Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal)
Each year, we announce the departure to a club more upscale than Naples. Each year, the Senegalese proves his loyalty to the Neapolitans by staying, he who has been playing there since 2014. But at 30 and with a record not in line with his talent, the central defender could finally be tempted by a departure. Especially since Napoli will not play in the Champions League next season.
Chancel Mbemba (DR Congo)
Whoever can play a central defender as well as a defensive midfielder has a significant advantage, unlike other African players of his caliber: he will not play the next African Cup of Nations, next January. The DRC not being qualified, he will be able to devote all his energy to FC Porto. Or to another club. In any case, the Portuguese team has every interest in extending it or selling it this summer. Because in June 2022, he will be free to leave for free.
Wilfred Ndidi (Nigeria)
The 24-year-old midfielder continues, season after season, to gain strength. Will he continue his ascent with Leicester City where he has two years of contract left? His rating is in any case at the highest and is valued at 60 million euros, according to Transfermarkt.
Paul Onuachu (Nigeria)
The 2-meter-01 giant dominated the Belgian league head and shoulders, scoring 33 goals in 38 matches. Obviously, that’s good for Genk since the Nigerian is still under contract until 2024. To secure the services of this 27-year-old striker, it will probably be necessary to put at least 20 million euros.
