Barcelona Eye Victor Osimhen as Potential Replacement for Lewandowski

Barcelona are reportedly considering Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen as a potential successor to veteran forward Robert Lewandowski.

The Nigerian international has been in stellar form since joining the Turkish club permanently from Napoli for around €75 million this summer, netting nine goals in 11 appearances across all competitions. According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Barcelona view Osimhen as a strategic investment due to his “profile, potential, and cost,” seeing him as both a short- and long-term solution to strengthen their attack.

The report notes that while it is unclear whether Osimhen would favour a move to Catalonia, Barcelona value his penalty-box prowess, physicality, leadership, and intensity—qualities considered vital to Hansi Flick’s sporting project. Despite earning a reported €246,000 per week, significantly less than Lewandowski’s €400,000, Galatasaray is expected to demand a substantial transfer fee for the 26-year-old, who was signed for around €75 million from Napoli.

Osimhen enjoyed a prolific 2024/25 season, scoring 37 goals in 41 appearances to help Galatasaray secure the league and cup double. He has continued his impressive form this season, including a Champions League hat-trick in a 3-0 win over Ajax, further boosting his European reputation.

Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek recently described Osimhen as the most valuable player in the Turkish Super Lig, avoiding specific comments on his potential transfer fee but confirming his elite status in the league. Reports suggest the club may only consider offers around €150 million, with Napoli entitled to 10% of any future transfer fee as part of their previous agreement.

Osimhen has also attracted interest from other top European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Manchester United, who are reportedly monitoring him ahead of the January transfer window. However, Italian clubs are excluded from potential suitors due to an agreement preventing a return to Serie A until 2027.