Barcelona Eyes Stunning New Striker to Replace Robert Lewandowski
Barcelona are reportedly considering Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen as a potential summer signing if Robert Lewandowski leaves when his current deal runs out.
The Polish veteran is anticipated to leave Camp Nou as a free agent at the end of this season, prompting Barça to compile a list of suitable successors for the 37-year-old striker.
According to The Athletic, Osimhen features among the players being tracked by sporting director Deco and Barcelona's scouting team, alongside Manchester City's Omar Marmoush who is also under review. While neither represents the club's top choice, both remain viable candidates.
Should Lewandowski depart, Ferran Torres would become Barcelona's sole recognized striker, though Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford, who appears likely to secure a permanent move this summer, provides another attacking option.
Osimhen Meets Several Requirements
Osimhen Meets Several Requirements
Previously regarded as one of football's most sought-after strikers, Osimhen's standing has undoubtedly suffered following his turbulent departure from Napoli and move to Galatasaray. Interest from Europe's elite clubs has diminished over recent months despite previous speculation linking him with Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona itself.
While concerns about Osimhen's temperament have often accompanied failed transfer attempts, the Nigerian forward continues to demonstrate exceptional scoring ability. Despite no longer working under Luciano Spalletti, who maximized Osimhen's potential at Napoli, the striker netted 37 times in 41 matches for Galatasaray last campaign and has already registered 17 goals this season.
At 27 years old, the forward should be approaching his most productive scoring period and would provide greater mobility compared to Lewandowski. Known for his blistering pace and remarkable physical attributes, Osimhen has terrorized defensive lines throughout Europe since emerging at Lille.
Osimhen possesses the physicality and strength that Barcelona would miss without Lewandowski, though the Catalan club's financial constraints could complicate any potential deal.
Galatasaray vice president Abdullah Kavukçu recently claimed that Osimhen's market value has "doubled" since joining the Turkish club, suggesting they would demand approximately $175 million for his services.
Julián Alvarez, Harry Kane Top Priority List
Julián Alvarez, Harry Kane Top Priority List
Barcelona's preferred targets come as little shock. Atlético Madrid's Julián Alvarez and Bayern Munich's Harry Kane represent their leading choices in the search for Lewandowski's replacement in Catalonia.
Alvarez has been consistently connected with Barcelona, and despite experiencing a somewhat disappointing second campaign with Atlético, he remains among the "top tier" of options. The Athletic reports that Barcelona are expected to pursue the Argentine, with Deco viewing him as his "standout" preference.
Kane has also been mentioned as a potential Camp Nou arrival, though he's considered an "unlikely" possibility. With his $75.6 million release clause set to expire in January, Barcelona would need to pay considerably more for Bayern's 32-year-old goal machine.