Spanish champions consider the Nigerian striker after Atlético Madrid reject a €100m bid for primary target Julián Álvarez
Barcelona have identified Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen as one of their leading alternative transfer targets after negotiations for Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez became increasingly difficult, according to reports in Spain.
Also read: ‘School is always there,’ Osimhen says as he looks ahead to university degree
The Barcelona Victor Osimhen link has gathered momentum after Mundo Deportivo reported that Atlético Madrid rejected Barcelona’s opening €100 million offer for Álvarez, insisting on a package worth €120 million plus the inclusion of a high-profile player.
The Catalan club are understood to be unwilling to meet those demands, prompting sporting director Deco and club officials to intensify contingency plans as head coach Hansi Flick seeks further attacking reinforcements ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
While Álvarez remains Barcelona’s preferred choice, negotiations have stalled, forcing the La Liga champions to assess several elite forwards capable of leading the line should a breakthrough prove impossible.
Among those options, Osimhen has emerged as one of the most compelling candidates.
The Nigeria international is admired for his pace, aerial strength, physical presence and consistent goalscoring record, qualities Barcelona believe would add a powerful new dimension to Flick’s attacking system.
Osimhen further enhanced his reputation after completing a €75 million permanent move from Napoli to Galatasaray in 2025.
The 27-year-old has continued his prolific form in Turkey, cementing his status as one of Europe’s most coveted centre-forwards.
Barcelona’s shortlist also includes Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martínez, although the Argentine’s long-term contract and importance to the Serie A club are expected to make any negotiations particularly challenging.
Brazilian striker João Pedro, once viewed as an ideal tactical fit under Flick, has reportedly become a more complicated option in recent weeks.
Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy also remains under consideration. Interest in the Guinea international has been strengthened by a release clause reportedly accessible only to a select group of Europe’s top clubs, despite Dortmund’s determination to keep him.
England captain Harry Kane has equally been discussed internally, but the Bayern Munich striker is considered an unlikely acquisition because of both his commitment to the Bundesliga champions and the significant financial package required to complete such a transfer.
Meanwhile, Dušan Vlahović, who has been repeatedly linked with Barcelona in previous transfer windows, is no longer regarded as one of the club’s priority options.
Barcelona’s search for attacking reinforcements reflects a broader effort to build on last season’s success under Flick while preparing for another demanding domestic and European campaign.
The club’s recruitment strategy also comes amid continued financial constraints that have forced Barcelona to balance sporting ambition with economic sustainability, making contingency planning an increasingly important part of negotiations.
Although Osimhen has emerged as a strong alternative, Barcelona remain focused on securing Álvarez’s signature if a compromise can still be reached with Atlético Madrid.
Also read: Barcelona reject Osimhen move as transfer rumours heat up
For now, the Spanish champions are keeping multiple options open, ensuring they can move swiftly in the transfer market should talks over their primary target fail to produce an agreement.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
