“It’d exceed €100 million” – Barcelona, Real Madrid tipped to battle for Victor Osimhen

Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona have both been tipped to battle for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen this summer, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 27-year-old Galatasaray forward has enjoyed another prolific campaign, scoring 19 goals across the Turkish Super Lig and the UEFA Champions League. Regarded as one of the most complete centre-forwards in the modern game, Osimhen is attracting interest from the biggest clubs in the world.

Barcelona are understood to be searching for a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski, whose influence is beginning to wane with age. While Julián Álvarez remains their preferred option, Osimhen’s name continues to circulate strongly as the summer transfer window approaches.

At Madrid, the situation is slightly different. Since the departure of Karim Benzema, the club have not had a recognised central striker, often deploying Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior through the middle.

FIFA agent Mithat Halis believes Osimhen could be the perfect solution for either club and expects a high-value transfer battle to emerge.

“Signing Osimhen is very realistic,” he said as per Barca Blaugranes. “It would even exceed €100 million. His transfer could be between Real Madrid and Barcelona. One has given up on Lewandowski. The other doesn’t have a center forward.

Halis also explained why Madrid, in particular, could benefit tactically from signing the Super Eagles forward.

“Real Madrid hasn’t had a center forward since Karim Benzema’s time. They are forced to play Mbappé and Vinicius as strikers.

“If they sign Osimhen, Mbappé and Vinicius will play in their natural positions, as wingers, and will be more effective. Victor Osimhen would be a very functional player for Real Madrid.”

Other transfer options for Victor Osimhen

While a move to Spain would represent a major step, Osimhen is not short of alternatives should deals with Madrid or Barcelona fail to materialise.

In the Premier League, Arsenal are often mentioned as serious contenders. Manager Mikel Arteta could be tempted to view Osimhen as the missing piece in his attack, particularly as the club look to convert dominance into major trophies.

Chelsea have also maintained a long-standing interest, with the club still searching for a consistent goalscorer despite previous negotiations falling through. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain could revive their pursuit as they continue to reshape their forward line.

Germany is another possible destination, with Bayern Munich reportedly open to investing heavily in a long-term successor to Harry Kane. In Spain, Atlético Madrid are also monitoring the situation as they plan for potential changes in attack.

A return to Italy appears unlikely due to contractual complications, particularly with Juventus, while a stay at Galatasaray for another season has not been ruled out, given the Turkish club’s desire to retain him after his impressive two-year spell.

Elsewhere, Manchester United remain loosely linked, although their focus may have shifted to other targets. In contrast, clubs in the Saudi Pro League, including Al-Hilal, are prepared to meet his release clause and offer huge financial packages reportedly worth between €40 million and €50 million per year.

With a market valuation estimated between €100 million and €130 million, Osimhen’s next move is set to be one of the defining stories of the summer.