Barcelona have drawn up a shortlist of potential strikers to replace Robert Lewandowski, and Victor Osimhen, is among the names under consideration, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Catalan giants are preparing for life after Lewandowski, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season.
The 37-year-old Poland international has been a prolific figure since arriving from Bayern Munich in 2022, scoring 115 goals in 179 appearances across all competitions.
He's set to turn 38 in August, and Barcelona aren't prepared to offer him a new contract, although he's been linked with clubs in the Major League Soccer.
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Lewandowski has already seen his role slightly reduced this season, with several of his La Liga appearances coming from the bench.
Head coach Hansi Flick has also experimented with other attacking options in recent months, including giving more opportunities to Ferran Torres as a central striker.
However, Torres has struggled to convince as Barcelona’s long-term solution in that role, prompting the Catalan club to intensify their search for a new centre-forward.
Osimhen and Marmoush among monitored options
According to The Athletic, Barcelona have identified several strikers across Europe. Among the names on their radar is Galatasaray's Victor Osimhen and Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush, who is on the books of Manchester City.
Both players are seen as viable alternatives should Flick's side fail to land their primary targets, with Osimhen’s reputation as one of Europe’s most dangerous strikers speaking for itself.
The Super Eagles star has consistently attracted interest from top European sides thanks to his pace, aerial ability, and clinical finishing. The former LOSC Lille man has scored 54 goals and provided 11 assists in 67 games since moving to Galatasaray last season.
Julian Alvarez remains Barcelona's priority
Barcelona’s top priority is believed to be Julian Alvarez, who has had a poor season by his standards at Atletico Madrid.
The Argentine forward is admired by Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, with club officials viewing him as an ideal long-term replacement for Lewandowski, primarily due to his movement between the lines.
Another elite striker admired by Barcelona is Harry Kane, although the Bayern Munich star is considered an unlikely option due to his age and the massive financial package required to sign him.
At least, Alvarez is expected to command fees well above €100 million. Also, Atletico Madrid are under no pressure to sell the Argentine, who remains a key player for manager Diego Simeone.
Barcelona may ultimately turn to more attainable options, such as Osimhen or Marmoush, if negotiations for their primary targets prove too expensive.
Still, Atletico view Osimhen as an option to bring to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, should Alvarez decide to head to the Spotify Camp Nou.
