Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has re-emerged as a talking point in Barcelona's transfer plans after the club executed a strategic U-turn, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigerian international has been heavily linked with a move to Catalonia this summer, especially following Robert Lewandowski's departure, leaving the club in urgent need of a world-class replacement.
Initially, the Blaugrana's primary target was Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez.
However, negotiations hit a massive wall. Although the player has reportedly expressed a desire to leave, Los Colchoneros have adopted an uncompromising stance.
They are insisting that they will not do business this summer unless Barcelona triggers Álvarez's impossible €500 million release clause.
Faced with this stubborn resistance, reports indicate that the reigning La Liga champions are now exploring alternative options in the market.
Which Strikers Are Barcelona Looking At?
Aside from previous links to Darwin Núñez, Harry Kane, and Gonçalo Ramos, The Athletic reports that Barcelona have made contact with Bournemouth regarding the availability of Eli Kroupi Jr.
The young French striker burst onto the scene last summer, contributing 13 goals in 33 games with his dynamic play, capable of operating as both a central forward and a winger.
However, Bournemouth are demanding a staggering €130 million to sanction a sale for a player they acquired for just €12 million a year ago. If the Cherries maintain this valuation for the 20-year-old, a deal is highly unlikely to materialize.
Will Barcelona Circle Back to Victor Osimhen?
If the pursuit of Kroupi falls through, the door could swing back open for Osimhen.
However, two major roadblocks remain. The Nigerian will have high wage demands just as Galatasaray have a very high valuation. The Turkish club is reportedly asking upwards of €120 million to let him go.
Although Barcelona have the financial capacity to match that transfer fee, Osimhen would likely need to accept a pay cut or performance-based incentives to fit into their wage structure.
In the meantime, the 27-year-old marksman continues to attract interest from other elite European sides, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Real Madrid, PSG, and Bayern Munich.
While Osimhen has consistently maintained that he is happy at Galatasaray, the dynamic nature of the transfer market means a desperate European giant could swoop in before the window shuts — whether it turns out to be Barcelona or another heavyweight suitor.
