Victor Osimhen transfer: Real Madrid confirm €150m bid as attention turn to Nigeria star

Real Madrid’s search for a new superstar striker could soon bring Victor Osimhen into focus after the Spanish giants confirmed that their record-breaking €150 million offer for Julián Álvarez was rejected by Atlético Madrid, Afrik-Foot reports.

The surprise announcement came shortly after Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez secured another term in office. Pérez had promised supporters a major “Galáctico” signing as Madrid look to build a team capable of challenging Barcelona for the league title next season. It has now emerged that Álvarez is his preferred target for the summer transfer window.

According to the club’s official statement, Real Madrid submitted a €150 million bid for the Argentine World Cup winner. However, Atlético Madrid immediately turned down the offer and pointed their city rivals towards Álvarez’s €500 million release clause.

The rejection is a significant setback for Los Blancos, who had hoped to add the former Manchester City forward to their attack. It also strengthens Atlético’s public position that the 26-year-old is not available for transfer despite interest from several top European clubs, including Barcelona, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.

Victor Osimhen emerges as possible alternative

With their pursuit of Álvarez hitting a major obstacle, attention could now shift towards Nigeria international Victor Osimhen.

Osimhen enjoyed an outstanding campaign with Galatasaray after completing his permanent move from Napoli. His performances in the Turkish Süper Lig and European competition have reportedly convinced the Istanbul club that his market value has risen dramatically.

Galatasaray paid €75 million to sign the Super Eagles star and recently completed all outstanding payments to Napoli. Club officials, including president Dursun Özbek and vice-president Abdullah Kavukcu, have publicly stated that they value Osimhen at €150 million and are unwilling to consider lower offers.

That valuation is particularly interesting following Real Madrid’s failed €150 million approach for Álvarez. Should Pérez decide to redirect the same budget towards another elite striker, Osimhen would naturally become one of the leading candidates.

However, Real Madrid would face fierce competition. Paris Saint-Germain continue to monitor the Nigerian forward as coach Luis Enrique looks to strengthen his attack, while Chelsea remain long-term admirers despite previous difficulties over wage negotiations. The Super Eagles forward has already been reportedly offered to Barcelona while Manchester United could make a move for him this summer.

At the moment, though, Atlético Madrid have blocked Real Madrid’s attempt to sign Álvarez. But with one transfer door closing, the possibility of a blockbuster move for Osimhen may have become much more realistic as Europe’s biggest clubs prepare for another battle in the market.