Barcelona Relaunches Bid for Super Eagles Star Victor Osimhen
Spanish football giants Barcelona have reportedly reignited their pursuit of Nigerian international striker Victor Osimhen, aiming to secure his transfer from Turkish club Galatasaray. The Catalan side is preparing a significant offer to meet the player's release clause and bolster their attacking options for the upcoming season.
Galatasaray Sets €80 Million Release Clause Amid Barcelona Interest
Galatasaray have placed an €80 million release clause on Victor Osimhen, signaling their intent to retain the prolific forward unless a substantial bid materializes. This move comes as Barcelona shows renewed interest, viewing Osimhen as a potential long-term replacement for aging striker Robert Lewandowski. The Nigerian joined Galatasaray for a club-record fee of €75 million from Napoli, after clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United failed to secure his signature.
Osimhen's Impressive Form and Career Highlights
Victor Osimhen, the 2023 CAF Player of the Year, has continued to showcase his goal-scoring prowess this season. In the 2025/26 campaign, he has netted 15 goals and provided one assist in 21 appearances across all competitions, including six goals in the UEFA Champions League. His performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was particularly notable, with four goals and three assists in six matches for Nigeria.
Key Achievements:
- Became Nigeria's second all-time highest goalscorer with 35 goals, trailing only Rashidi Yekini.
- Helped Galatasaray win a domestic double in the 2024/25 season, topping the Turkish Super Lig scoring charts with 37 goals.
- Previously spent a season on loan at Galatasaray after a fallout with Napoli coach Antonio Conte.
Barcelona's Transfer Strategy and Alternatives
Barcelona are actively planning for the future, with Osimhen identified as a key target to succeed Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker is expected to consider an exit as he approaches 38 years of age. Should a deal for Osimhen fall through, the Catalan club have lined up Ferran Torres as an alternative option. This strategic move underscores Barcelona's commitment to reinforcing their attack with top-tier talent.
Fan Reactions and Expert Opinions
The news of Barcelona's interest in Osimhen has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerian fans and football pundits. Some express excitement at the prospect of seeing him play at Camp Nou, while others doubt Barcelona's financial capability to complete the transfer. Former England international Rio Ferdinand has also criticized Manchester United for missing out on signing Osimhen, highlighting the striker's high market value and proven track record.
Financial Details: Osimhen's current contract with Galatasaray includes a salary of €16 million per year over three years, with an option for an additional year. This deal was accepted over a more lucrative offer from Al-Hilal, which proposed €45 million per season, demonstrating his commitment to competitive football in Europe.
Conclusion: A High-Stakes Transfer Saga
As Barcelona prepares to make a formal offer, the transfer saga surrounding Victor Osimhen continues to captivate the football world. With an €80 million price tag and his consistent performances, Osimhen represents a significant investment for any club. Whether Barcelona can meet Galatasaray's demands remains to be seen, but this development underscores the global appeal of one of Africa's premier football talents.
