It’s that time of the year again, the transfer window. For many football fans, especially those supporting clubs that can’t play decent football, this period brings its own thrill. The rumours, the “here we go’s,” the endless compilations of skills and goals on X (Twitter). It’s pure dopamine.

While big names like Florian Wirtz have made headlines with a club-record move to Liverpool, and Arsenal and Chelsea continue their summer rebuilds, African players are also making significant waves. From record signings to quiet breakthroughs, this summer has been far from dull.

Here’s a closer look at the key African players making headlines this transfer window:

Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)

Club: Napoli → Galatasaray (linked)

Arguably the biggest African name in the window, Osimhen has rejected several big-money offers from Saudi side Al Hilal. His heart is set on a move to Galatasaray, but Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is playing hardball, demanding a €40m base fee, €35m in instalments, plus a sell-on clause. As of Thursday night, Galatasaray have agreed to most of Napoli’s demands, with the deal said to be in its final stages.

Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon)

Club: Brentford → Manchester United (linked)

Back in June, journalist David Ornstein reported that Mbeumo had his eyes firmly on a Manchester United move, dismissing interest from Newcastle and Spurs. Over a month later, two bids have been rejected. Brentford now want £70m, referencing recent deals like João Pedro and Kudus. United submitted a third bid around that figure on Thursday, and as at Friday, it was confirmed that a deal worth £65m plus £6m add-ons has been agreed with Brentford, with the Cameroonian set to sign a 5-year deal with the option of an extra year. Mbeumo scored 20 league goals last season, making him one of the Premier League’s standout forwards.

Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)

Club: Atalanta → (Linked with Inter Milan, Atlético Madrid)

The reigning African Player of the Year is on the move. With 20 goals in 40 appearances last season, Lookman’s stock is high. Atalanta are open to selling for around €40m, with Inter Milan and Atlético Madrid both expressing interest. Inter Milan have made a €40m bid but Atalanta want to sell for €50m to Italian clubs. Talks are ongoing.

Yoane Wissa (DR Congo)

Club: Brentford → (Linked with Tottenham, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest)

Wissa had a career-best 19 league goals last season and is attracting attention. While Tottenham and Newcastle are monitoring, a potential exit for Bryan Mbeumo could complicate matters — it’s unlikely Brentford will let both go in the same window. Still, interest in the 28-year-old DR Congo forward is strong.

Mohammed Kudus (Ghana)

Club: West Ham → Tottenham

One of the biggest African deals of the summer is already complete. Kudus joined Spurs for £55m, turning down Chelsea to work under new manager Thomas Frank. After a solid debut season at West Ham, the Ghanaian will look to improve on his goal contributions and cement a key role in North London.

Reinildo Mandava (Mozambique0

Club: Atlético Madrid → Sunderland

History made. Reinildo becomes the first-ever Mozambican to play in the Premier League, joining newly promoted Sunderland on a free transfer. The 31-year-old brings experience and versatility to the squad — and pride to Mozambique.

Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast)

Club: Brighton → Sunderland

Another boost for Sunderland. Ivorian midfielder Adingra joins for €24m after a breakout season with Brighton, where he scored 5 goals and provided 2 assists in 33 appearances. He’ll bring flair and energy to Sunderland’s Premier League return.

The transfer window always brings the drama, and this year, African players are standing up to be counted. From Osimhen’s rollercoaster saga to Kudus finally landing a big move, it’s been packed with plot twists. Whether it’s Sunderland making history with Reinildo or Mbeumo playing hard to get, African talent is everywhere, and clubs are paying attention.

One thing’s clear: African players are making big moves this summer. Stay tuned because the window’s just heating up.