Victor Osimhen's name has been plunged right back into the transfer rumour mills after Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez publicly revealed that he wants to leave the Spanish club, Soccernet.ng reports.
The development could have a major impact on Osimhen's situation at Galatasaray, where the Nigerian striker is attracting attentions from some of Europe's wealthiest clubs. Atletico Madrid have already been linked with the Super Eagles star in recent weeks, and Alvarez's latest comments could accelerate the Spanish club's efforts to sign a replacement.
Alvarez, who joined Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in 2024 for £81 million, has become one of Diego Simeone's key players. The Argentina international enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign, scoring 20 goals and providing nine assists in 49 appearances across all competitions.
However, after Argentina's 2-0 World Cup victory over Austria, the striker made it clear that he is considering a new chapter in his career.
“I spoke with people at the club, with those I had to speak with and the best thing for everyone is a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream,” Alvarez said as per SkySports.
“It's not the time to talk about this, but I also can't hide it. I try to be an honest person.”
The 26-year-old has attracted serious interest from several European giants. Real Madrid reportedly had a £129 million bid rejected earlier this month, while Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal have also monitored his situation.
Although Atletico pointed to the player's £431 million release clause when rejecting Real Madrid's approach, Alvarez admitted that his future remains unresolved.
“It's not known when it will be resolved,” he added.
Alvarez exit could provide funds for Osimhen move
Alvarez's transfer request could immediately reignite speculation surrounding Osimhen, who is regarded as Atletico Madrid's leading option should the Argentine leave the Metropolitano.
Reports suggest Atletico previously saw a verbal offer worth around €120 million rejected by Galatasaray. The Turkish champions remain determined to keep the Nigerian striker, who is viewed as the centrepiece of their long-term Champions League ambitions.
Club officials are understood to value Osimhen at up to €150 million and have already resisted attempts from interested clubs to begin negotiations below that figure. There have even been suggestions that Galatasaray could offer the former Napoli star the captain's armband to strengthen their efforts to retain him.
An Alvarez sale would significantly improve Atletico's ability to finance a move for Osimhen. Real Madrid, Barcelona and other interested clubs are prepared to spend well over €150 million on the Argentine, potentially handing Simeone's side the financial firepower needed to revisit their pursuit of the Nigerian international.
The situation could also reduce competition from Barcelona. The Catalan giants are believed to view Alvarez as a priority target, meaning their attention may shift away from Osimhen if they intensify efforts to sign the Argentine.
Premier League giants remain major threat to Atletico
Despite Atletico Madrid's growing interest, several clubs remain capable of disrupting any move for Osimhen.
Manchester United continue to be strongly linked with the 27-year-old and reportedly view him as their dream striker signing. The Red Devils are searching for an elite goalscorer capable of leading their attack and could use their financial strength to compete with Atletico.
Chelsea remain another serious contender. The London club have tracked Osimhen for several years and are believed to be prepared to offer a substantial financial package if they decide to make a formal move.
Arsenal are also not completely out of the equation despite signing Viktor Gyökeres last year and winning the Premier League title for the first time in more than 20 years. Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to add a powerful centre-forward to his squad, and reports suggest the Gunners have already made contact with Osimhen's representatives. Their interest in Alvarez means they could quickly switch focus to the Nigerian if they miss out on the Argentine.
Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus remain outsiders in the race. PSG possess the financial resources to satisfy Osimhen's wage demands, while Juventus continue to monitor the situation despite the financial challenges involved in completing such a deal.
One significant obstacle for all interested clubs is Osimhen's salary. The Nigerian is believed to earn between €15 million and €21 million net per season, meaning any suitor would need to commit substantial resources to both the transfer fee and personal terms.
