Barcelona have reportedly identified Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen as a potential long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, according to reports from Mundo Deportivo and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano.
Mundo Deportivo’s Barcelona correspondent Gabriel Sans revealed on Turkish radio Radyospor that manager Hansi Flick and his technical team have added Osimhen to their striker shortlist. “Barcelona are keeping a close eye on him, and he is definitely a player they want,” Sans said.
While there are no active negotiations at the moment, Sans claimed it is “certain” the Catalan giants will approach Galatasaray for Osimhen in 2026, as he is high on their priority list.
Romano supported this by confirming that Barça are “for sure looking” for a new centre-forward amid a “concrete chance” that Lewandowski will depart when his contract expires in June. Osimhen is one of several elite strikers the club is monitoring, with ongoing internal discussions about the next No. 9.
The Nigerian forward’s current deal with Galatasaray reportedly includes a clause preventing him from joining any Italian club for two years, potentially limiting competition for his signature.
Galatasaray signed Osimhen from Napoli for €75 million after a successful loan spell and are expected to demand more than that to sell him.
Although Mundo Deportivo isn’t considered the most reliable source for transfer news, Romano’s comments have lent credibility to reports that Barça are genuinely tracking the Nigerian star.
If a move materialises, it would mark a major success for Barcelona — and a redemption story for Osimhen — after Chelsea’s failed attempt to sign him in 2024 due to personal terms disputes, which ultimately led to his Napoli exit.
Osimhen’s competition for the role could be Dusan Vlahovic, who becomes a free agent at the end of the season. While Vlahovic represents a cheaper option, Osimhen’s superior record and proven scoring ability make him the more attractive choice.
The 26-year-old has continued his prolific form at Galatasaray, scoring 43 goals in 50 appearances, following his Serie A triumph with Napoli that ended their 33-year Scudetto drought.
While Julian Alvarez is reportedly Barça’s “ultimate” striker target, his potential €200 million price tag makes Osimhen a far more attainable option.
For now, Barcelona’s plans hinge on outgoings — they may need to sell players to finance the move — but there’s little doubt that Osimhen has emerged as a key name in the Blaugrana’s future attack plans.
