The Africans set to shape the winter transfer window
Transfers: several African players could be on the move. A number of the continent's internationals are in high demand this winter
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Victor Osimhen, back among the big boys?
Loaned out by Napoli to Galatasaray to widespread surprise, Victor Osimhen is thriving in Turkey. The Nigerian striker has scored 13 goals and provided 4 assists in just 16 games. Those numbers show, if proof were needed, that the 26-year-old has lost none of his finishing touch. His name is already being mentioned all over the place during this window. Manchester United are among the clubs cited as suitors. Paris Saint-Germain, long-time admirers, could step into the race again.
Chancel Mbemba, Ziyech, finally free to leave?
The winter window could also see Chancel Mbemba leave Olympique de Marseille. Yes, the Congolese defender is still at OM. He is still under contract with the club, but he has not played a single game this season. The Phocéens are reportedly looking for 3 million euros to let him go. Interested clubs will therefore have to meet that price to land one of the best defenders in Africa. Amine Harit, who is also at Marseille, could be sold to raise some cash.
Another major African figure could use this window to remind fans of what he can do. That man is Hakim Ziyech. Frozen out at Galatasaray, the Moroccan left-footer is no longer in his manager's plans. A departure is therefore being talked about, and several clubs are reportedly in the frame.
Senegalese players still in demand
With 14 goals and 3 assists in 24 games for Red Star Belgrade, Chérif Ndiaye could leave and finally play in a top 5 European league. Reims are among the interested clubs. Another Senegalese player will also be closely watched. El Hadj Malick Diouf, the left-back making a splash at Slavia Prague, is a persistent target for Crystal Palace, who have already made an offer of 15 million euros, rejected by the Czech club. Other clubs, notably in France, are also in the hunt.
Habib Diarra (Strasbourg) and Arouna Sangante (Le Havre) are also at the centre of plenty of transfer rumours. Finally, Kalidou Koulibaly could spring a surprise. Several rumours link him with a move to Turkey. One to watch.
Read also: SNA off-season: Guéla Doué, the impressive right-back of the Elephants