The 2024–25 campaign saw some Southern African stars rise to fame, delivering impeccable performances across Europe and worldwide. For others, the season had few moments to savour as their displays dropped below their usual standards.
As the transfer window draws closer, it is only inevitable that we take a look at COSAFA stars who would cost a fortune to acquire. BolaNews unveils the list of the five most valuable Southern African players in the world, according to Transfermarkt.
5. Zaydou Youssouf (Comoros, Al Fateh): €6 million
Zaydou Youssouf joined Saudi Pro League side Al Fateh from Portuguese club Famalicão in late January. The midfielder went on to make 16 appearances for Al Fateh, where his presence in the middle of the park proved crucial in helping the team avoid relegation.
Averaging 3.4 tackles, 7.8 recoveries and 1.3 interceptions per game, he was one of the most efficient ball winners in the Saudi top flight. A former French youth international, Youssouf began representing the Comoros national team in 2024. The 25-year-old played a key role in their unbeaten run through the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, where Les Coelacanthes finished top of their group ahead of Tunisia.
The 25-year-old is currently valued at €6 million, tied with Angola’s M’bala Nzola and South Africa’s Lyle Foster.
4. Patson Daka (Zambia, Leicester City): €9 million
The Chipolopolo star endured a difficult season marred by injuries and limited minutes on the pitch. He registered just one goal and one assist in 25 appearances for Leicester City across all competitions, starting only seven of those matches.
As a result, he has been dethroned as the most valuable Southern African player. Signed from RB Salzburg for a national record €30 million in 2021, Daka’s market value has since dropped to €9 million.
However, with Jamie Vardy having left the club, Daka is tipped to lead the line for the Foxes in the EFL Championship next season.
3. David Carmo (Angola, Olympiacos): €10 million
David Carmo played a pivotal role in Olympiacos’ triumphant 2024–25 campaign, helping the Greek giants secure their 48th domestic title. The commanding centre back kept six clean sheets in 18 starts.
He joined Olympiacos on loan at the beginning of last season from Premier League side Nottingham Forest, who had signed him from FC Porto for €11 million.
Carmo’s stellar form also extended to international duty, as he helped Angola top Group F in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers without losing a match. Currently valued at €10 million, the Portuguese-born defender is expected to return to two-time European Cup winners Nottingham Forest next season.
2. Marshall Munetsi (Zimbabwe, Wolves): €15 million
The midfielder began the 2024–25 season with Stade de Reims, where he scored four goals and provided two assists. His consistent performances caught the attention of Wolves, who signed him for €18 million, making him the most expensive Zimbabwean footballer of all time.
The fee surpassed the €12 million Aston Villa paid for Marvellous Nakamba in 2019. At Wolves, Munetsi continued to impress, contributing two goals and one assist in the Premier League.
Currently valued at €15 million, he is the most valuable Southern African player in the English top flight.
1. Geny Catamo (Mozambique, Sporting Lisbon): €15 million
Mozambique’s Geny Catamo claims the title of the most valuable Southern African player in the world. The Sporting Lisbon winger would cost €15 million.
Catamo made 46 appearances across all competitions in the 2024–25 season, scoring seven goals and providing two assists.
For Mozambique, he notched two goals and an assist in the AFCON qualifiers, helping the Mambas qualify for the continental showpiece in Morocco.
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