Reports from Spain and Turkey suggest that FC Barcelona have officially added Victor Osimhen to their striker shortlist as the Catalan giants prepare for life after Robert Lewandowski, SportPremi understands.
Barcelona Eye Galatasaray’s Nigerian Star
According to Mundo Deportivo journalist Gabriel Sans, speaking on Turkish radio station Radyospor, Barcelona’s sporting department, led by Deco, has been scouting potential replacements for Lewandowski, whose contract expires at the end of this season.
While big names like Erling Haaland and Julián Álvarez are seen as dream signings, they are financially out of reach. As a result, Barça are monitoring more realistic options, with Victor Osimhen emerging as a strong candidate.
Victor Osimhen joined Galatasaray from Napoli in 2024, initially on loan, before the deal was made permanent on the 30th of July 2025.
The Super Eagles forward has started this season brightly, scoring six goals in nine matches across all competitions for the Turkish champions.
Gabriel Sans confirmed that Barcelona are “following Osimhen very closely,” noting that while there have been no negotiations yet, the club sees him as a player who “means goals and success.”
Barcelona’s Post-Lewandowski Plans Under Hansi Flick
Barcelona’s current coach Hansi Flick is reshaping the team’s attacking approach. With Lewandowski turning 37 and facing fitness challenges, the German tactician and Deco’s recruitment team are planning a gradual transition.
Lewandowski’s contract ends this season, and renewal talks are yet to begin. That uncertainty has led Barcelona to identify forwards capable of leading Flick’s high-pressing, vertical system. Alongside Osimhen, Kenan Yıldız and Fisnik Asllani have also been scouted.
However, Osimhen’s price tag €75 million, according to Transfermarkt, remains a major financial hurdle for the La Liga champions.
Osimhen’s Rising Stock in Europe
Since winning the Serie A title with Napoli, Osimhen has become one of Europe’s most complete forwards. His blend of pace, aerial dominance, and relentless pressing makes him a nightmare for defenders.
At Galatasaray, he has maintained the same energy and goal threat that made him Serie A’s top scorer. His ability to score with both feet, dominate in the air, and track back defensively has earned admiration from coaches across Europe, including Flick’s staff, who value his pressing intensity and physicality.
Why Barcelona Needs Victor Osimhen
Unlike the Lewandowski era, where Barcelona relied heavily on structured build-up, Hansi Flick’s football demands speed, pressing, and direct attacking play. Osimhen is the ideal fit.
Pressing Power and Work-rate
Barcelona currently lacks a natural presser up front. Osimhen thrives in high-energy systems. He hunts defenders, wins second balls, and forces errors, perfectly aligning with Flick’s approach.
Aerial Presence and Finishing Variety
With creators like Lamine Yamal and Pedri delivering crosses, Barça need a striker who can finish aerially and exploit half-spaces. Osimhen’s timing, jumping power, and header accuracy give Barcelona the kind of threat they’ve lacked since Luis Suárez.
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Osimhen is not just a finisher; he tracks back, presses, links play, and sets the tone for intensity. His aggression in duels and movement off the ball could unlock more freedom for Barcelona’s young stars to create around him.
In short, Osimhen gives Barça something they currently lack: a striker who can score, defend from the front, and physically dominate opponents.
Financial Challenge but Tactical Perfection
Barcelona’s financial constraints make this transfer complicated, but in pure football terms, Osimhen is a perfect fit for Hansi Flick’s vision. If the club can make room in their wage structure, signing Osimhen would be a statement move, replacing Lewandowski not just with another goalscorer, but with a forward built for Flick style of play.
Our Verdict
Barcelona needs Victor Osimhen. His pressing, aerial dominance, and work-rate embody the kind of striker Hansi Flick’s system demands. If finances permit, he should be their top target for 2026.
