Super Eagles GK Okoye ranks as Africa's fourth most valuable

Posted : 30 October 2024

Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has achieved a significant career milestone, with his market value soaring to €7.5 million, according to the latest update from Transfermarkt. This valuation marks the highest point in Okoye's career thus far, reflecting his steady progression since he first debuted for the Super Eagles.

Okoye, who was born in Germany, gained prominence when he made his debut for Nigeria against Brazil in October 2019. At that point, his market value was only €150,000, and he was still striving for recognition while playing for Fortuna Düsseldorf in the Bundesliga.

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In 2020, Okoye's career took a pivotal turn when he transferred to Sparta Rotterdam. This move solidified his position as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper and significantly increased his market value to €1 million. His performances in the Dutch league began to catch the attention of scouts and fans alike.

The goalkeeper made another significant leap in January 2022 when he signed with Watford, completing a €5 million transfer that summer. This transfer not only made him the most expensive Super Eagles goalkeeper in history but also raised expectations for his performance in England.

However, his stint in England did not go as planned, as he faced limited playing opportunities in the Championship with Watford. Fortunately, in August 2023, he was transferred to Udinese, Watford's sister club, for a reported fee of €6 million. This move provided him with a fresh start in Serie A.

Since joining Udinese, Okoye quickly became the team's first-choice keeper, playing a crucial role in helping the club avoid relegation last season. Although he lost his starting position with the Super Eagles to Stanley Nwabali from Chippa United, he has maintained his status as Udinese's primary goalkeeper this season.

To date, Okoye has featured in all nine Serie A matches for Udinese, achieving three clean sheets and allowing only 11 goals, including one penalty save from three attempts. These impressive statistics have undoubtedly contributed to his rising market value. As of now, Okoye ranks as the fourth most valuable African goalkeeper globally, trailing only André Onana of Cameroon and Manchester United, who leads at €35 million. Following him are Morocco's Bono at €9 million and Senegal's Edouard Mendy at €8 million. Cape Verde's Bruno Varela rounds out the top five, valued at €4 million.

Super Eagles GK Okoye ranks as Africa's fourth most valuable

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