Sports
Barcelona Plot Move for Osimhen as Lewandowski Nears Exit
Barcelona have reportedly identified Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen as a potential replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who is expected to leave the La Liga champions at the end of the current season.
According to Catalan outlet Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have set their sights on the prolific forward and are considering making a move for him next summer. The club has made acquiring a new striker one of its top priorities as it plans ahead for the 2026/27 season and beyond, amid growing signs that this campaign could be Lewandowski’s last in Blaugrana colours.
Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also confirmed that Barcelona are closely monitoring options for their future attack.
“There have been rumours from Turkey and Spain suggesting that Barcelona are considering Osimhen as one of their striker targets for summer 2026,” Romano said.
“It’s true that Barcelona are studying the market for future strikers. Robert Lewandowski’s contract situation is key here, he’s expected to leave when his deal expires, so Barca are planning ahead.
“However, what I can tell you is that Osimhen is not negotiating with any club right now. Barcelona are simply monitoring several players, gathering information, and preparing for future moves. This is standard practice, not active negotiation.”
Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray permanently from Napoli ahead of the 2025/26 season, has continued his impressive form. The Turkish champions signed him after a remarkable loan spell in which he scored 37 goals in 41 matches across all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign. Galatasaray fought hard to secure the striker’s permanent signature in a record-breaking €75 million deal on a four-year contract until 2029.
Reports indicate that Barcelona are unwilling to renew Lewandowski’s deal, which expires soon, as the 37-year-old struggles with fitness and consistency. The Polish striker’s injuries and age have seen him drop out of Hansi Flick’s starting lineup in recent weeks.
However, pursuing Osimhen’s transfer could stretch Barcelona’s finances. The Nigerian international reportedly earns €15 million annually, plus a €1 million loyalty bonus and €5 million in image rights compensation.
Romano further revealed that Napoli inserted a special clause in Osimhen’s contract before selling him to Galatasaray.
“That clause doesn’t apply outside Italy, so other clubs can make inquiries, but right now, nothing is happening. Barcelona are just studying the striker market for 2026,” Romano added.
The Catalan giants have also been linked with other top forwards including Harry Kane, Karl Etta Eyong, Dusan Vlahovic, Erling Haaland, Serhou Guirassy, and Julian Alvarez as they look to rebuild their attacking force for the next era.
