Iniesta backs Osimhen as Barcelona’s long-term Lewandowski replacement

Former Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta has urged the Catalan club to sign Victor Osimhen, describing the Super Eagles striker as an ideal successor to Robert Lewandowski.

Barcelona are searching for a new centre-forward after Lewandowski left the club for Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire earlier this summer. Iniesta believes the Nigerian international would provide the goalscoring quality required to fill the gap left by the Poland captain.

The former Spain international also warned Barcelona against using teenage winger Lamine Yamal as a central striker. Yamal has established himself as one of the club’s outstanding attacking players, but Iniesta feels his qualities would be better used away from the number nine position.

Speaking to NTV Spor, Iniesta called on Barcelona sporting director Deco to make a serious move for Osimhen during the summer transfer window.

“Lamine Yamal is a fantastic player, but I wouldn’t prefer him playing as a number 9. If Ferran Torres leaves, I would strongly advise Deco to sign a striker.

“I don’t think Atletico Madrid will let Julian Alvarez go. I would suggest they sign Victor Osimhen. He’s a fantastic goalscorer and one of the best replacements for Robert Lewandowski.”

Osimhen and Julian Alvarez had both been considered by Barcelona’s recruitment department as possible options to lead the attack. However, the club subsequently dropped its interest in Osimhen, with reports suggesting that the financial demands involved made a deal difficult to complete.

Barcelona were said to have been concerned by the striker’s market value and wage demands. Despite that, Iniesta’s recommendation places Osimhen among the leading candidates in the debate over who could replace Lewandowski at the club.

The Turkish champions initially set an asking price for the Super Eagles forward but have since changed their position and are now prepared to retain their prized asset.

That development could make a move more complicated for Barcelona, who must also resolve their attacking plans if Ferran Torres leaves. Iniesta’s comments indicate that he sees the need for the club to recruit a recognised striker rather than rely on Yamal to operate permanently through the middle.

The former Barcelona midfielder also does not expect Atletico Madrid to allow Julian Alvarez to depart, leaving Osimhen as his preferred alternative. He believes the Nigerian’s finishing ability and experience in front of goal would make him one of the strongest available replacements for Lewandowski.

For now, Barcelona’s interest in Osimhen has been quietly shelved, while the Turkish champions are ready to keep the forward. Iniesta, however, has made clear that he considers the Super Eagles striker the right profile to lead Barcelona’s attack over the long term.