Barcelona have reportedly revived their interest in Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen after failing to make significant progress in their pursuit of Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez, according to Italian outlet Todomercatoweb.
The report claims Barcelona have now elevated Osimhen to one of their top attacking targets and could make a move for the Galatasaray forward before the transfer window closes.
TeamTalk also reported that Barcelona sporting director Deco has intensified efforts to pursue the Nigerian, who was previously included on the club’s shortlist during the summer as an alternative option.
Osimhen is reportedly viewed as a more realistic target than Álvarez and could provide Barcelona with the proven goalscoring option they are seeking as they strengthen their attack.
Osimhen Starts Season in Scoring Form
The 27-year-old has continued his remarkable goalscoring form with Galatasaray, opening the new season in the same fashion he finished the previous campaign.
Osimhen has scored four goals in Galatasaray’s opening two Turkish Süper Lig matches.
He scored twice to help Galatasaray secure a draw against newly promoted Çorum FK, before producing another two goals and an assist in a 4–0 victory over Erzurumspor.
His latest performances have extended his remarkable run of direct goal contributions in the Süper Lig to 15 consecutive matches, during which he has recorded 15 goals and six assists.
Prolific Record at Galatasaray
Osimhen finished the 2024/25 season as the Süper Lig’s leading scorer, registering 26 league goals from 37 appearances across all competitions.
His goals played a major role in Galatasaray’s successful domestic campaign, helping the club secure a league and cup double.
The striker subsequently made his move from Napoli permanent in a club-record €75m transfer.
His continued performances have also helped Galatasaray retain their league title while attracting renewed interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have previously been linked with the Nigerian, while Barcelona are now reportedly stepping up their own pursuit.
Galatasaray Reluctant to Sell
Galatasaray have consistently maintained that they have no intention of selling their star striker.
However, the club’s position could come under increasing pressure as interest from major European clubs continues to grow and Osimhen maintains his exceptional scoring record.
Barcelona are reportedly working urgently to strengthen their attacking options before the transfer deadline, with the club’s sporting management actively exploring the possibility of bringing in a new striker.
Osimhen’s combination of goalscoring ability, physical strength, pace and Champions League experience makes him an attractive option for Barcelona, particularly if their pursuit of Álvarez ultimately fails.
With the transfer window approaching its final stages, Barcelona’s renewed interest could set up another major transfer battle for the Nigerian striker.
