Victor Osimhen: Laporta’s re-election key to Barcelona beating Real Madrid to Nigeria star

The race to sign Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen is beginning to heat up across Spain, with three of the country’s biggest clubs closely monitoring the forward’s situation, Afrik-Foot reports.

Both FC Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid have all shown strong interest in the powerful Nigerian forward. The Super Eagles star has continued to attract attention across Europe after establishing himself as one of the most dangerous centre-forwards in the modern game.

Barcelona are particularly keen on strengthening their attack in the next transfer window. With Robert Lewandowski entering the final stages of his time at the club, the Catalan giants are searching for a new long-term leader of their forward line.

Osimhen’s playing style fits exactly what Barcelona want. He combines pace, physical strength and a natural instinct for goals. The striker is also known for his relentless pressing and his ability to stretch defensive lines by attacking space behind defenders.

This season, Victor Osimhen has continued to demonstrate his value. Despite international commitments, he has still managed to score 18 goals for Galatasaray and remains the club’s most important attacking player. His performances have helped the Turkish champions move close to another league title while also competing strongly in European competitions.

Because of his quality and growing reputation, the striker would not come cheap. Reports suggest any deal could cost around €100 million, a figure that reflects both his age and his consistent scoring record across Europe.

Barcelona are aware that they are not alone in the chase. Real Madrid have long admired Osimhen’s qualities and could see him as a future attacking option, while Atletico Madrid are also exploring the possibility of pairing him with fellow Nigerian Ademola Lookman in their attack.

Victor Osimhen: Laporta’s election could shape Barcelona’s chances

While several clubs want Osimhen, Barcelona’s chances could depend heavily on the future of club president Joan Laporta.

Laporta recently stepped down from his position in February 2026 in order to run for re-election, a move allowed under the club’s statutes. His campaign will see him compete against candidates including Víctor Font, Xavi Vilajoana and Marc Ciria. During the campaign period, Rafa Yuste has been serving as interim president.

For Barcelona’s sporting project, Laporta’s possible return could be very important.

According to Fichajes, the experienced president is one of the strongest supporters of a move for Osimhen and sees the Nigerian striker as the ideal player to lead the club’s next generation of attacking football.

Laporta has a history of backing bold transfer decisions. When he first became Barcelona president in the early 2000s, he played a key role in bringing Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho to the club from Paris Saint‑Germain in 2003. That signing transformed Barcelona’s fortunes.

Ronaldinho quickly became the face of a new era at Camp Nou, inspiring the team to domestic and European success and helping restore Barcelona’s reputation as one of the most exciting sides in world football.

Laporta now hopes another statement signing could spark a similar new chapter. In Osimhen, Barcelona believe they may have found a striker capable of delivering goals, energy and leadership for years to come.

However, with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid also watching closely, the battle for the Nigerian forward could become one of the most fascinating transfer stories in European football this summer.