Victor Osimhen’s future has once again become a major talking point in the European transfer market after Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez openly admitted that he is seeking a move away from the Spanish capital club.
The Argentine forward’s comments could have significant consequences for Osimhen, who remains one of the most sought-after strikers in world football despite Galatasaray’s determination to keep him at the club.
Atletico Madrid have been credited with a strong interest in the Super Eagles star in recent months, and Alvarez’s desire to leave could force Diego Simeone’s side to accelerate plans to recruit a new elite forward.
Alvarez joined Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in 2024 in a deal worth £81 million and quickly established himself as a key figure under Simeone. The 26-year-old enjoyed an outstanding 2025/26 season, registering 20 goals and nine assists in 49 appearances across all competitions.
Following Argentina’s 2-0 FIFA World Cup victory over Austria, Alvarez publicly acknowledged that he is considering a departure from Atletico Madrid.
“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 striker has emerged as one of the hottest properties in Europe, with Real Madrid reportedly seeing a £129 million offer rejected. Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal are also believed to be monitoring his situation closely.
Although Atletico Madrid reportedly pointed to Alvarez’s £431 million release clause when dismissing Real Madrid’s approach, the player’s latest comments have fuelled fresh speculation that a transfer could still materialise before the end of the window.
Alvarez Departure Could Reopen Atletico Madrid’s Pursuit of Victor Osimhen
Should Alvarez leave, Atletico Madrid would be expected to enter the market for a proven goalscorer, with Osimhen reportedly sitting high on their shortlist.
The Nigerian international has enjoyed tremendous success since joining Galatasaray and remains central to the Turkish champions’ long-term ambitions, particularly as they seek to establish themselves among Europe’s elite in the UEFA Champions League.
Recent reports suggest Galatasaray rejected an approach worth around €120 million for Osimhen, underlining their determination to retain their prized asset. Club executives are believed to value the former Napoli striker at approximately €150 million and have shown little willingness to negotiate below that figure.
There have also been reports that Galatasaray could hand Osimhen the captain’s armband as part of efforts to convince him to remain in Istanbul.
An eventual sale of Alvarez would provide Atletico Madrid with substantial financial resources, potentially placing them in a stronger position to meet Galatasaray’s valuation. With several European heavyweights prepared to spend more than €150 million on the Argentine, Simeone’s side could find themselves well-equipped to revisit a move for the Nigerian striker.
Barcelona’s pursuit of Alvarez could also work in Atletico’s favour. The Catalan giants reportedly view the Argentine as a priority target, which may reduce their immediate focus on Osimhen should they intensify efforts to secure Alvarez’s signature.
Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal Still Monitoring Osimhen
Despite Atletico Madrid’s growing interest, the race for Osimhen remains far from straightforward.
Manchester United continue to admire the Nigerian forward and are reportedly searching for a world-class striker capable of transforming their attack. Osimhen is understood to remain one of the club’s preferred options as they seek to rebuild their squad.
Chelsea also remain firmly in the conversation. The Blues have tracked Osimhen for several transfer windows and possess the financial strength required to compete for both his transfer fee and salary demands if they decide to formalise their interest.
Arsenal cannot be ruled out either. Despite signing Viktor Gyökeres last year and ending their long wait for a Premier League title, Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to add further firepower to his attacking unit. Reports indicate the Gunners have already established contact with Osimhen’s representatives, while their interest in Alvarez means they could quickly pivot towards the Nigerian should they miss out on the Argentine star.
Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus remain potential alternatives. PSG have the financial muscle to satisfy Osimhen’s wage expectations, while Juventus continue to monitor developments even though the overall cost of any deal could present a significant challenge.
Osimhen’s Salary Remains a Major Factor
One of the biggest hurdles facing any club interested in Osimhen is the financial package required to secure his services.
The Super Eagles striker is believed to earn between €15 million and €21 million net annually, meaning any prospective buyer would need to commit enormous resources not only to a transfer fee that could exceed €150 million but also to a lucrative long-term contract.
With Alvarez’s future uncertain and several European giants weighing up their attacking options, Osimhen’s situation is once again shaping up to be one of the defining transfer stories of the summer.
