Victor Osimhen: Why Super Eagles star’s links to Atletico Madrid may end soon

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Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been linked with a potential move to La Liga giants Atletico Madrid this summer, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The Nigerian marksman is currently regarded as one of the elite strikers in world football. He established a solid reputation during his time at Napoli and has continued that form while playing in Istanbul for Galatasaray.

During his time with the Cimbom, he has recorded an impressive 59 goals and 16 assists in just 74 appearances, helping the club secure two Turkish Süper Lig titles and one Turkish Cup.

Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray before the Trendyol Turkish Süper League match between Galatasaray SK and Antalyaspor at Rams Park Stadium.
Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray. Copyright: ImagoxSeskimphotox

​Given his clinical form, Osimhen has been linked with nearly every top club in Europe. This summer, rumors have suggested that Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich are all monitoring his situation.

​However, the Galatasaray hierarchy remains firm in their stance that they will not part ways with their prolific Nigerian star this summer. Also, Osimhen has admitted that he is both happy and comfortable in Istanbul.

​Despite this, Atletico Madrid has recently emerged as a likely destination for the striker, largely due to the potential departure of Julián Álvarez.

Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid is in action with the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Second Leg match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Barcelona at Estadio Riyadh Air Metropolitano on April 14, 2026 in Madrid, Spain.
Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid. Photo by Alberto Gardin/Eurasia Images/Getty Images Madrid Estadio Riyadh Air Metropolitano Spain Copyright: ImagoxEurasiaxSportxImagesx

The talented Argentine is reportedly a target for Barcelona, who have already submitted a bid which was rejected. Although Atleti has been adamant about keeping him, the 26-year-old’s desire to leave could eventually force them to negotiate a deal.

Should that transfer materialize, Los Colchoneros would need a replacement, hence the interest in Osimhen. But while the Super Eagles star is the main candidate, the club may explore alternative options.

​Who Might Atletico Madrid Sign Instead of Victor Osimhen?

Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen
Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Photo by IMAGO

​Although Victor Osimhen remains a high-profile target, Atletico Madrid could potentially make a shock move for English striker Mason Greenwood.

​The former Manchester United forward is currently expected to leave Marseille for Fenerbahçe in a record-breaking deal. They already agreed on a €40 million transfer since three days ago.

But while all parties have reached an agreement, reports from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, suggest the 24-year-old is delaying the move to see if Atleti shows concrete interest. Although this scenario is dependent on the departure of Julián Álvarez.

Olympique de Marseille VS Stade Rennais FC - Ligue 1 McDonald s - 17/05/2026 Mason Greenwood OM - Ligue 1 McDonalds match between Olympique de Marseille and Stade Rennais FC on May 17, 2026 at the Orange Velodrome Stadium in Marseille.
Mason Greenwood for Marseille. Copyright: ImagoxWilliamxCannarellax

​Greenwood is widely considered one of the most promising young forwards in Europe, and like Álvarez, he offers significant versatility, including the ability to play on the wings.

With a valuation of around €40 million, he represents a much more affordable option for Atletico Madrid compared to Osimhen, who would likely cost in excess of €100 million.

<!-- Author Start -->Kelvin Omachonu<!-- Author End -->

Kelvin Omachonu

Sports Writer

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Kelvin Omachonu is a sports writer covering Nigeria, with 6 years in sports media and a Reuters Digital Journalism certification. A bettor for 7 years, he specialises in football and basketball odds and responsible gambling, and has used operators including Bet9ja, SportyBet, Betano and 1xBet.