Pulling off Osimhen's transfer will test Barcelona's financial capacity to the hilt. The Nigerian international currently earns €15 million (£13m/$17.5m) per annual, in addition €1m as loyalty bonus and €5m in image rights compensation. He is, therefore, the highest-paid player in Super Lig history. Galatasaray broke the bank to land Osimhen's signature, splurging a league-record €75m (£65m/$88m) to sign him on a four-year contract.
It appears unlikely that a player with such a hefty price tag will depart without specific conditions being met – chief among them, the player’s own desire for a new challenge. Likewise, Galatasaray are not expected to part ways with him for anything less than a substantial offer.
Any potential pursuit of Osimhen will ultimately depend on the club’s financial standing, with the hierarchy fully aware that investing in a proven goal scorer represents a major financial commitment. The club will also be mindful of not getting a big-money signing unless they are fully confident of avoiding registration drama, which is contingent on the club meeting the 1:1 rule of La Liga. As things stand, the Catalan giants are not there yet.
This context helps explain why sporting director Deco has publicly played down the prospect of signing a new No.9, unless, of course, an exceptional market opportunity presents itself. “Perhaps you can do without one. This isn’t the time to talk about signings. Ferran can play as a 9,” said Deco. “PSG won the Champions League without a penalty-area player. Talking about a ‘9’ is a bit of a mistake, although there are good players.”