By Victor Kanayo
After his season long exploits, Nigerian international and Napoli hitman, Victor Osimhen, has been ranked as the third most valuable striker in the world.
This was disclosed via Transfermarkt update.
Only Mbappe, Haaland Ahead
The ranking showed that only French man Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland of Norway are ahead of Osimhen.
While Mbappe plays professional football for PSG, Haaland stars for Manchester City.
Among Best 10
Another ranking by Marca, a Spanish media platform, has placed Osimhen amongst the best 10 footballers in the world in 2023.
However, two top African footballers – Mohamed Salah of Egypt and Riyad Mahrez are not even in the top 20.
The latest ranking comes just weeks after CIES Football Observatory also ranked Osimhen as the player with the highest market value in Africa.
The 24-year-old has been rated as the sixth most valuable player in the world by Marca.
In the report published on their website, the Nigeria Super Eagles striker is said to have a value of 120 million euros.
Osimhen As Napoli ‘King’
Osimhen has become a hero in Naples following an outstanding and historic campaign with his club Napoli.
He was at the heart of everything good as Napoli ended a 33-year wait for Serie A glory last season, with 26 goals to his name.
The former LOSC Lille forward was also named as Serie A’s best striker, becoming the first-ever African in the league’s 125-year history to achieve the feat.
European Choice
The Nigerian goal poacher, is reportedly disposed for a move to either Manchester United or Real Madrid ahead of other top clubs seeking his talents in Europe.
His preference, according to a former Napoli great Salvatore Bagni was due to UEFA Champions League opportunities both side present for him.