Osimhen or Alvarez: Lamine Yamal’s preferred top Barcelona signing revealed

Lamine Yamal has reportedly made his feelings clear as FC Barcelona begin planning for life after Robert Lewandowski, Soccernet.ng reports.

According to Fichajes as per Hurriyet, the teenage winger prefers a move for Nigeria international Victor Osimhen. Yamal believes the Super Eagles striker would add a different dimension to the club's attack. Osimhen, currently excelling in Turkey and Europe with Galatasaray S.K., has built a reputation as one of the planet's most dangerous forwards.

Osimhen’s pace, strength and constant movement would stretch opposition defences, creating more space for Barcelona’s wide players. For a team that relies heavily on quick wingers and attacking combinations, that could be a major advantage.

Barcelona are also aware that Lewandowski, now in the later stages of his career, cannot carry the attacking load forever. The club want a striker who can lead the line for years to come, and Osimhen fits that profile.

However, there is a major obstacle: money. Osimhen remains one of the most sought-after strikers in the game, and his transfer fee could rise well beyond what Barcelona are comfortable paying. Reports suggest the Spanish side may need to sell several players to raise funds if they decide to move seriously for him.

Despite these challenges, Osimhen’s profile continues to appeal. His ability to press defenders, dominate in the air and score different types of goals makes him a strong tactical fit for Barcelona’s evolving style.

Barcelona’s priority: Álvarez first, Osimhen as backup

While Yamal may favour Osimhen, Barcelona’s top target is understood to be Julián Álvarez of Atlético Madrid.

Club president Joan Laporta is believed to see Álvarez as the ideal long-term replacement for Lewandowski. The Argentine forward offers versatility, work rate and technical quality, traits that suit Barcelona’s style of play.

But signing Álvarez will not be easy. Atlético Madrid are reluctant to sell to a direct rival and are expected to demand a very high fee. That figure could go far beyond Barcelona’s budget, making negotiations difficult.

Because of this, Osimhen has emerged as a strong alternative, effectively a ‘plan B' if a deal for Álvarez proves impossible.

From a financial point of view, Osimhen may actually be the more realistic option. While still expensive, his expected price is closer to what Barcelona are willing to pay. That makes him an attractive fallback if talks for Álvarez stall.

In the end, Barcelona’s decision could come down to finances rather than preference. Yamal’s backing of Osimhen highlights the growing belief within the squad that a powerful, traditional striker is needed. But the club’s leadership remain focused on Álvarez as their first choice.