The Turkish Süper Lig has become a major hub for top African attacking talent not just for their performances on the pitch but for the substantial salaries they command. From Morocco to Nigeria, Africa’s finest forwards are making headlines, both for goals and their earnings.
As the 2024/25 season approaches its climax, here are the five highest-paid African strikers currently plying their trade in Turkey’s top flight.
1. Victor Osimhen – Galatasaray (€10 million/year)
Nigerian star Victor Osimhen tops the list. On loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, the 26-year-old has taken the Turkish league by storm. With 24 goals and 5 assists in 27 league games, Osimhen has delivered on the hype.
His annual salary stands at a staggering €10 million — the highest in the Süper Lig for any African player. His parent club Napoli still holds his contract, which runs until 2026, but the striker’s market value remains an eye-watering €70 million.
2. Youssef En-Nesyri – Fenerbahçe (€6.67 million/year)
Hot on Osimhen’s heels is Moroccan international Youssef En-Nesyri, who signed for Fenerbahçe last summer. The 27-year-old has hit 16 goals and supplied six assists across 30 league appearances, becoming a fan favourite in Istanbul.
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He earns €6.67 million annually and is under contract until 2029. His market value is estimated at €24 million.
3. Anthony Nwakaeme – Trabzonspor (€2.5 million/year)
After a brief stint in the Saudi Pro League, Anthony Nwakaeme returned to Trabzonspor and continues to earn handsomely. The 36-year-old Nigerian veteran is on €2.5 million per year.
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Though his on-field numbers are modest — 1 goal and 4 assists in 17 games — his leadership and experience remain valuable. His current deal runs until 2026.
4. Vincent Aboubakar – Hatayspor (€2.5 million/year)
Cameroonian forward Vincent Aboubakar made the switch from Beşiktaş to Hatayspor last summer. The 32-year-old has contributed 7 goals and 2 assists in 25 matches and earns €2.5 million annually.
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His contract expires this season, and with a current transfer value of €1.6 million, the striker may be on the move again in the summer window.
5. Rachid Ghezzal – Rizespor (€2.5 million/year)
Algerian winger Rachid Ghezzal rounds out the list, having joined Rizespor ahead of this season. The 32-year-old has 4 goals and 2 assists in 19 games and earns €2.5 million per year.
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Previously with Leicester City and Lyon, Ghezzal’s contract also runs out at the end of the current campaign. His market value currently sits at €1 million.
Whether it’s Morocco, Nigeria, Cameroon, or Algeria, African strikers continue to play a pivotal role in Turkish football — not just in scoring goals but in driving value and viewership.
