In the latest Sports Pro’s Top 50 Most Marketable Athletes list for 2024, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen stands out as the only African representative, securing the 44th position and surpassing Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, who is placed 45th. This ranking integrates three core metrics: brand strength, total addressable market, and economics, which collectively gauge an athlete’s marketability. Osimhen’s scores show a commendable performance, posting 24.18 in brand strength, 26.94 in total addressable market, and 13.03 in economics, leading to an overall marketability score of 64.15. In contrast, Haaland, despite his high-profile status, scored lower across the board, totaling 64.02.
At the summit of the list is American gymnast Simone Biles, whose marketability is ranked the highest. Trailing her is Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr., who emerges as the top footballer at second place with an impressive score of 91.52. The roster is completed by illustrious athletes, with Lionel Messi landing in the top five, showcasing his enduring appeal in the sports arena. Notably, other football luminaries, including Neymar, Jude Bellingham, Marcus Rashford, and Lamine Yamal, appear in the rankings, while the omission of Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has drawn attention, raising questions about his current market appeal.
Despite his impressive ranking, Osimhen has faced challenges regarding his market value, which saw a decline of €35 million in 2024. This change mirrors a broader trend as Napoli has adjusted Osimhen’s release clause from £113 million to £63 million, primarily due to unsuccessful attempts to facilitate a permanent transfer over the summer. Such fluctuations denote a critical time for the forward as he navigates his place in the footballing landscape.
Currently, Osimhen is on a season-long loan at Galatasaray, where he has been making headlines for his outstanding performance. He recently shattered the club’s seven-year record by gathering six goal contributions within his first five league appearances, marking a significant achievement last matched by Bafetimbi Gomis in 2014. His prowess on the pitch has undoubtedly catapulted his profile, leading to increased attention from various clubs eager to secure his services.
Rumors swirl around Osimhen, with Turkish outlets suggesting that Galatasaray may pursue a permanent transfer with a bid estimated at €50 million in the upcoming January transfer window. However, this proposed sum falls short of his €75 million release clause, indicating the financial intricacies involved in player transfers in today’s market. Competing interests extend to Chelsea, who had previously sought to sign him before he made the move to Turkey, highlighting the fervent demand for his talents.
As for his future, Osimhen has openly expressed his intention to honor his commitment to Galatasaray through the season. This decision aligns with his current trajectory, as he enjoys a productive spell in Turkey, reviving his career and potential in competitive football. However, with clubs like Al Ahly from the Saudi Pro League keeping a watchful eye on his development, the discourse surrounding his next move remains dynamic, promising an intriguing narrative as the football season progresses.
