Barcelona have reportedly decided against pursuing a move for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, with the Nigerian’s financial package proving too expensive despite the Spanish giants’ search for a new first choice striker.
The Catalan club had monitored Osimhen’s situation in recent weeks as they explored options to replace Robert Lewandowski, who departed for Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire after the 2025/26 season.
However, according to Diario SPORT, Barcelona have now ruled out a deal after assessing both the transfer fee and the overall financial commitment required to sign the 27-year-old.
Salary demands emerge as biggest obstacle
The report claims Osimhen currently earns around €15 million net per season, in addition to bonuses and image rights, and is unwilling to reduce his salary expectations.
Barcelona, who continue to operate under strict financial constraints, are reportedly unwilling to disrupt their wage structure for a single signing, regardless of the striker’s proven goalscoring pedigree.
His transfer fee has also complicated matters. Galatasaray are believed to value the Nigerian international at around €75 million, making the total cost of the operation significantly higher than Barcelona are prepared to commit this summer.
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Beyond the financial considerations, Barcelona are also said to have reservations about Osimhen’s personality and how he could fit into the club’s dressing room.
While there are no doubts about his ability on the pitch, the report suggests club officials believe the potential challenges surrounding the deal outweigh the benefits of bringing him to Camp Nou.
Despite Barcelona stepping away from negotiations, Osimhen remains one of the most sought-after strikers in European football.
The former Napoli forward scored 76 goals in 133 appearances during his time in Italy before continuing his prolific form at Galatasaray, where he has netted 59 goals in 74 matches.
His performances have continued to attract interest from several top clubs.
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Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly among the clubs pushing to sign the Nigerian striker.
Spurs are said to have submitted an opening offer of around €60 million, but Galatasaray rejected the proposal as they continue to hold out for a fee closer to their valuation.
The North London club are expected to return with an improved bid, while Barcelona have already made their decision, ending any prospect of Osimhen becoming Lewandowski’s successor.
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Catalan giants insist the issue was never Osimhen’s quality. Instead, it was the overall financial package required to complete one of the biggest transfers of the summer.
