Barcelona snub Osimhen pursuit and focus shifts to Julián Álvarez

Sports

Barcelona have reportedly decided not to pursue a potential transfer for Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen, even though the club was presented with the chance to bring in one of Europe’s most productive finishers.

Spanish outlet Diario Sport has suggested that the Catalan side are instead concentrating their efforts on landing Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez. Barcelona view the Argentine as the most suitable long-term successor to veteran centre-forward Robert Lewandowski.

Diario Sport also reports that intermediaries recently contacted Barcelona to explore whether a deal for Osimhen could be arranged, putting the proposal on the club’s radar during ongoing discussions.

Despite that approach, the reigning La Liga champions are said to have turned down the opportunity. The rationale, per the same reporting, is that Barcelona want to focus their resources and attention on a move for Álvarez ahead of the next transfer window.

Within Barcelona’s sporting structure, Álvarez is considered a strong match for the club’s longer-term plans and playing style, which is why he has emerged as their main attacking objective.

The stance is notable given Osimhen’s standout form in recent seasons, which has helped elevate him into one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.

His performances have continued to validate the interest coming from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, with his goal threat and overall impact drawing attention across the continent.

Since joining Galatasaray, the Super Eagles forward has cemented his reputation as one of the game’s most dangerous attackers, finding the net 59 times in 74 appearances across all competitions.

Zibuyile Dladla
Zibuyile Dladla
Senior Writer

Zibuyile began her media journey as a sales intern at Mediamark (Kagiso Media) before moving into digital content creation for ZAlebs.com. Over four years, she helped evolve the platform from a simple blog into one of South Africa’s leading independent entertainment news sites.
Following ZAlebs’ transition to Celebrity Worx in 2016, Zibuyile was promoted to Executive Editor, recognized for her sharp audience insight and ability to match editorial with branded content. Highlights of her time include a Bookmark Award nomination, judging TLC’s Next Great Presenter, reporting from the MTV EMAs, and building partnerships with radio stations like YFM, Cliff Central, and Good Hope FM.
Her editorial work also expanded to include fast-growing digital verticals—such as lifestyle tech, online entertainment, and gambling-related content—tailored to evolving reader interests and brand opportunities.

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