Victor Osimhen transfer news: Barcelona prepare official bid for 20-goal striker

Victor Osimhen could come off Barcelona’s transfer shortlist after the Spanish champions begin to push ahead with plans to sign Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez this summer, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Galatasaray forward has enjoyed another prolific campaign in Europe after scoring 26 goals in all competitions during his loan spell with Turkish champions Galatasaray. His form in both the Turkish Super Lig and the Champions League has kept him among the most wanted forwards in Europe ahead of the summer transfer window.

Barcelona had identified Osimhen as one of the leading candidates to replace veteran striker Robert Lewandowski in the long term. The Polish forward is expected to leave the club at the end of next season, forcing the Catalan giants to accelerate plans for a new central striker.

However, Barcelona sporting director Deco is now prioritising a move for Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez, according to Fabrizio Romano. Reports from Spain claim Barcelona are preparing an official cash offer worth between €70 million and €100 million for the Argentina international, who managed 20 goals in all competitions this season.

Atletico Madrid are understood to value Alvarez much higher and are demanding close to €150 million for the former Manchester City attacker, whose contract runs until 2030.

Barcelona had initially considered reducing the transfer fee by offering players in exchange deals, with Ferran Torres among the names discussed internally, but current talks are focused on a straight financial offer.

Alvarez is also believed to favour a move to Camp Nou. Spanish reports say the World Cup winner has slowed down contract extension discussions with Atletico while waiting to see whether Barcelona can complete a deal.

Deco recently held meetings in Barcelona with Alvarez’s representatives Juanma Lopez and Andy Bara as negotiations intensified behind the scenes.

Osimhen remains Barcelona’s backup option

Barcelona’s growing interest in Alvarez has directly affected Osimhen’s chances of moving to Spain this summer.

Club officials reportedly see both forwards as separate solutions to the same problem rather than players who can arrive together. Because of Barcelona’s financial restrictions and La Liga fair play regulations, the club is unlikely to fund two expensive striker transfers in the same window.

Osimhen is therefore viewed as Barcelona’s alternative option if negotiations for Alvarez collapse or if another European giant moves ahead in the race.

Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal are both monitoring Alvarez closely and could easily match Atletico Madrid’s huge valuation if Barcelona struggle financially.

The Catalan side are also trying to return fully to La Liga’s 1:1 financial rule, which would allow them greater flexibility in the transfer market. Until that situation is resolved, every major signing must be carefully planned.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Barcelona’s striker plans, Osimhen’s numbers this season continue to strengthen his reputation.

The 26-year-old scored 15 league goals in just 22 Super Lig appearances for Galatasaray and also delivered seven Champions League goals before the Turkish side were eliminated by Liverpool in March.

Unlike Alvarez, who often drops deep to link play and create chances, Osimhen operates as a traditional number nine who constantly attacks the penalty area and plays on the shoulder of defenders.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is believed to admire Alvarez’s pressing ability and tactical flexibility, but Osimhen’s physical presence, aerial strength and finishing remain highly attractive qualities should Barca eventually switch targets.

Barcelona’s recent agreement to sign Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon in a deal worth more than €80 million could also complicate matters further.

The expensive move for the England international has reduced Barcelona’s spending power and may force the club to choose carefully between Alvarez and Osimhen before the transfer window reaches its peak.