Victor Osimhen on alert again as Barcelona make Alvarez transfer U-turn
Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray Copyright: ImagoxDavidxBlunsden
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has re-emerged as a talking point in Barcelona's transfer plans after the club executed a strategic U-turn, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigerian international has been heavily linked with a move to Catalonia this summer, especially following Robert Lewandowski's departure, leaving the club in urgent need of a world-class replacement.
Initially, the Blaugrana's primary target was Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez.
Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid celebrates a goal during UEFA champions league 2025/26 match between Atletico de Madrid and Eintracht at Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.
Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid. Copyright:Imago xGuillermoxMartinezx
However, negotiations hit a massive wall. Although the player has reportedly expressed a desire to leave, Los Colchoneros have adopted an uncompromising stance.
They are insisting that they will not do business this summer unless Barcelona triggers Álvarez's impossible €500 million release clause.
💣🚨 BREAKING: Barça now FULLY understands that Atlético Madrid will not change its stance regarding Julián Alvarez.
The focus now is on whether the player will make another move.
The countdown to resolving this saga has begun.@Benayadachraf pic.twitter.com/G2NtarwG0L
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) July 26, 2026
Faced with this stubborn resistance, reports indicate that the reigning La Liga champions are now exploring alternative options in the market.
Which Strikers Are Barcelona Looking At?
Aside from previous links to Darwin Núñez, Harry Kane, and Gonçalo Ramos, The Athletic reports that Barcelona have made contact with Bournemouth regarding the availability of Eli Kroupi Jr.
The young French striker burst onto the scene last summer, contributing 13 goals in 33 games with his dynamic play, capable of operating as both a central forward and a winger.
Nottingham Forest v AFC Bournemouth, Premier League Eli Junior Kroupi Of AFC Bournemouth during the Nottingham Forest v AFC Bournemouth Premier League match at the City Ground, West Bridgford, England on 23 May 2026.
Eli Junior Kroupi Of AFC Bournemouth. Copyright:IMAGO/EveryxSecondxMediax
However, Bournemouth are demanding a staggering €130 million to sanction a sale for a player they acquired for just €12 million a year ago. If the Cherries maintain this valuation for the 20-year-old, a deal is highly unlikely to materialize.
Will Barcelona Circle Back to Victor Osimhen?
If the pursuit of Kroupi falls through, the door could swing back open for Osimhen.
However, two major roadblocks remain. The Nigerian will have high wage demands just as Galatasaray have a very high valuation. The Turkish club is reportedly asking upwards of €120 million to let him go.
Although Barcelona have the financial capacity to match that transfer fee, Osimhen would likely need to accept a pay cut or performance-based incentives to fit into their wage structure.
Victor Osimhen during group phase match between Galatasaray and Liverpool
Victor Osimhen for Galatasaray. Copyright: ImagoxBerkxOzkanx-xDepoxPhotos
In the meantime, the 27-year-old marksman continues to attract interest from other elite European sides, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Real Madrid, PSG, and Bayern Munich.
While Osimhen has consistently maintained that he is happy at Galatasaray, the dynamic nature of the transfer market means a desperate European giant could swoop in before the window shuts — whether it turns out to be Barcelona or another heavyweight suitor.
Kelvin Omachonu
Kelvin Omachonu
Kelvin Omachonu is a professional football columnist and sports writer with over half a decade of experience covering major events and delivering captivating, analytically-driven stories. A graduate of the University of Ibadan, he is fueled by a profound dedication to sports journalism and the beautiful game. His insights have previously been featured in respected outlets, including IndyPress UI, UCJ UI Newshive NG, Sportpremi, and a few others. Away from work, Kelvin is an avid fan of basketball, enjoys a great movie, and is always discovering new music.