Yan Diomande is now the costliest African footballer in history after completing a high-profile transfer from RB Leipzig to Real Madrid. The 19-year-old talent finalized his switch to the Santiago Bernabéu in a deal estimated at $144 million. His stellar performance throughout the previous season with RB Leipzig drew attention from top European clubs, ultimately leading Madrid to finalize the agreement.
This move places Diomande ahead of former Arsenal player Nicolas Pépé, whose $92 million transfer from Lille to Arsenal previously held the record. Additionally, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen appears twice on the list of most expensive African players. His transition from Lille to Napoli carried a $91 million valuation, while his more recent permanent move to Galatasaray was valued at $87 million.