Umar Sadiq, Orban, Bassey out; Boniface, Tella in: Top 10 Nigeria’s most valuable players

Napoli forward Victor Osimhen retains his top spot as the most valuable Nigerian player, while Leicester midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, previously second, now ranks ninth, Soccernet.ng reports.

The list of Nigeria’s top-valued players in 2023 features standouts such as Victor Boniface, excelling at Bayer Leverkusen since his move from Royale Union SG.

Here’s a closer look at some of Nigeria’s most valuable players attracting global attention, according to Transfermarkt.

1. Victor Osimhen

Osimhen’s standout year includes pivotal performances for Napoli, contributing to their Scudetto win after 33 years. He secured 8th place in the 2023 Ballon d’Or and clinched the Confederation of African Football’s Best Player award. Valued at €120 million, his achievements undoubtedly influence his market worth.

2. Victor Boniface

The 22-year-old continues to make waves in the German Bundesliga, winning the rookie award multiple times. Valued at €40 million, his impressive performances, including topping the UEFA Europa League scoring charts, solidify his place among Nigeria’s top-valued players.

3. Ademola Lookman

Despite a challenging season marked by injuries and morale issues, Lookman’s market value surged to €30 million from €15 million after his move from RB Leipzig last year. His contributions to Everton’s fight against relegation, followed by a move to Fulham, where he’s made an impact with goals and assists, elevate his standing.

4. Alex Iwobi

Iwobi, once third in valuation, now ranks fourth at €28 million. His pivotal role in Everton’s bid to avoid relegation, leading their assists chart, and subsequent move to Fulham, where he’s made an impact with goals and assists, justify his market worth.

5. Taiwo Awoniyi

Despite dropping from fourth to fifth, Awoniyi remains valued at €28 million. His performances for Nottingham Forest have been promising, although injury setbacks have hindered his full potential.

6. Samuel Chukwueze

Joining AC Milan from Villarreal, Chukwueze’s transition to Serie A has been gradual. Yet, his talent, previously showcased in La Liga, maintains his value at €25 million.

7. Terem Moffi

Moffi’s move to OGC Nice in the winter window has proven his worth on the field, reflected in his €25 million valuation.

8. Nathan Tella

Tella’s recent Super Eagles call-up highlights his rising profile. Valued at €23 million, his performances have attracted interest, demonstrating his potential.

9. Wilfred Ndidi

Leicester City’s relegation impact caused Ndidi’s value to plummet to €18 million, dropping him to ninth position.

10. Kelechi Iheanacho

Similarly affected by Leicester City’s relegation, Iheanacho now sits at the 10th spot in the valuation chart.