Osimhen, Chukwueze, Iheanacho and the top 10 highest-paid Nigerian players in Europe

Nigeria boasts some of the most talented footballers making waves in various top clubs across Europe. Many of these talents have proven themselves to be crucial to the aspirations of their teams and such importance is reflected in their remuneration.

In this article, Soccernet.football takes a look at the top 10 highest-paid Nigerian players in Europe, spotlighting how their quality and determination have impacted the fortunes of their various teams.

10. Calvin Bassey (£45,000-per-week)

After impressing at Rangers and Ajax, Calvin Bassey joined Fulham, where his defensive versatility has been a key asset. Whether deployed as a center-back or left-back, Bassey delivers consistently, and his salary reflects his growing reputation in the Premier League.

9. Moses Simon (€46,154-per-week)

Nantes’ creative talisman Simon, continues to shine in the French top flight division. His pace, dribbling, and ability to create goal scoring opportunities make him one of the best wingers in Ligue 1. Simon’s contributions have also earned him one of the top salaries among Nigerian footballers in Europe.

8. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (€46,346-per-week)

Though still carving his niche in European football, Dele-Bashiru has impressed with his dynamism and technical ability. The midfielder is currently on loan at Lazio from Turkish side Hatayspor. He earns a commendable salary for his potential and performance, making him one of Nigeria’s rising stars.

7. Frank Onyeka (€47,115-per-week)

The 26-year-old midfielder is known for his tireless work rate and defensive acumen as shown in his performances for Brentford in the past. Although currently away on loan at Ausburg were he is playing a crucial part, Onyeka is well-rewarded, with his wages reflecting his importance for the club.

6. Taiwo Awoniyi (£50,000-per-week)

Awoniyi’s stock has risen significantly since joining Nottingham Forest. The big center-forward helped Forest avoid Premier League relegation last season and certainly has earned his position as one of the most highly-paid Nigerian players.

5. Wilfred Ndidi (£75,000-per-week)

Ndidi remains one of Nigeria’s most reliable midfielders thanks to his tackling, interceptions, and defensive solidity. The Leicester City man earns a paycheck which underscores his status as one of the Foxes’ most important players.

4. Alex Iwobi (£80,000-per-week)

Iwobi’s move to Fulham from Everton has rejuvenated his career. The versatile midfielder’s creativity and ability to link play make him a valuable asset for the Cottagers. His substantial salary package also highlights his importance and experience in the Premier League.

3. Kelechi Iheanacho (€92,000-per-week)

Iheanacho, a proven goalscorer with an eye for the spectacular, is currently on the books at La Liga side Sevilla. Despite his very limited involvement in Seville at the time of writing, Iheanacho remains a top earner and one of Nigeria’s most consistent forwards.

2. Samuel Chukwueze (€98,654-per-week)

Following his high-profile move from Villarreal to AC Milan, Chukwueze has taken to life at San Siro like a duck to water. The exciting winger is renowned for his dribbling and lightning pace. His lucrative deal with Milan makes him one of Nigeria’s top earners in European football.

1. Victor Osimhen (€192,308-per-week)

After one of the most dramatic transfer sagas of the summer, Osimhen and Napoli eventually cut ties, with the prolific striker now tearing it up in the Turkish Super Lig for Galatasaray. After firing Napoli to their first Scudetto triumph in ages, there can be no doubt about Osimhen’s credentials as an elite goalscorer who is worth his weight in financial rewards.