Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta has urged the Spanish club to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen as the ideal replacement for Robert Lewandowski following the veteran forward’s departure to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire.
Iniesta believes Osimhen possesses the qualities needed to spearhead Hansi Flick’s attack, especially as Barcelona continue to face difficulties in their pursuit of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, who remains the club’s preferred transfer target.
Speaking in an interview with NTV Spor, the former Spain international said Barcelona should prioritise signing an out-and-out striker if Ferran Torres leaves the club.
According to Iniesta, while youngster Lamine Yamal is an exceptional talent, he should not be deployed as a central striker. He described Osimhen as one of the best options available to replace Lewandowski and recommended that sporting director Deco pursue a deal for the Super Eagles forward.
Osimhen’s reputation has continued to grow following another productive campaign with Galatasaray, where he played a key role in the club’s 2025/26 Turkish Super Lig title triumph. Despite missing several matches due to a forearm injury and the Africa Cup of Nations, the Nigerian striker recorded 15 league goals and five assists in 22 appearances.
The 2023 African Player of the Year also became the fastest player to reach 50 goals for Galatasaray, achieving the milestone in just 59 matches. His performances included a decisive brace against Antalyaspor to secure the league title and a goal in the Istanbul derby against Fenerbahce after returning from injury.
However, a move to Barcelona could be complicated by financial considerations. Reports indicate that Osimhen is seeking an annual net salary of around €15 million, a figure that would significantly increase the club’s wage bill under Spain’s tax structure and pose registration challenges under La Liga’s financial regulations.
Despite the financial hurdles, the striker is reportedly willing to reduce his salary demands to facilitate a transfer. He had previously shown a similar willingness during discussions with Atletico Madrid, although the Spanish club eventually abandoned the move after deciding not to part with Julian Alvarez.
Galatasaray are also expected to demand between €70 million and €75 million for the Nigerian international, who has scored 35 goals in 52 appearances for the Super Eagles.
While Barcelona continue to monitor the situation, sporting director Deco remains focused on securing Alvarez. The club has already strengthened its attack with the arrivals of Karim Adeyemi and Anthony Gordon but is still searching for a recognised number nine, with Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic also under consideration.
Meanwhile, Premier League sides Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are among the clubs reportedly interested in signing Osimhen before the transfer window closes.