Iniesta backs Osimhen as Barcelona search for Lewandowski successor

Andres Iniesta has urged Barcelona to make Victor Osimhen their next leading striker after Robert Lewandowski’s move to Chicago Fire, saying the Nigeria international has the qualities to spearhead Hansi Flick’s attack.

The former Barcelona midfielder believes Osimhen would be the ideal replacement for Lewandowski, particularly with Atletico Madrid unwilling to consider offers for Julian Alvarez. The Argentina forward has been Barcelona’s preferred transfer target, but the Catalan club’s efforts to pursue him have been complicated by Atletico’s refusal to negotiate.

Iniesta made his strong recommendation during an interview reported by NTV Spor, endorsing the 52-cap Super Eagles striker as Barcelona consider their options before the transfer window closes.

Osimhen’s case has been strengthened by an impressive campaign with Galatasaray. He helped the Turkish club win the 2025-26 Super Lig title, scoring 15 goals and providing five assists in 22 league appearances. His contribution came despite missing a number of matches because of a forearm injury.

The striker also became the fastest player to score 50 goals for Galatasaray, reaching the landmark in only 59 appearances. Among his most important performances was a brace against Antalyaspor that secured the league title, while he also scored in Galatasaray’s 3-0 derby win over Fenerbahce after returning from injury.

Osimhen has scored 35 goals in 52 appearances for Nigeria and is regarded by Iniesta as the type of natural centre-forward Barcelona need following Lewandowski’s departure. However, the club’s financial position and its wider transfer strategy have made a deal increasingly difficult.

Reports suggest Barcelona have cooled their interest in Osimhen after monitoring him closely for several weeks. The striker’s wage expectations are viewed as one of the principal obstacles. He is reportedly seeking a net salary of about €15m per season, in addition to performance-related bonuses.

Because of Spain’s tax system, that package could cost Barcelona close to €30m a year before tax. Such a commitment would make it extremely difficult for the club to register Osimhen under La Liga’s financial regulations.

Galatasaray are also unwilling to reduce their valuation of the forward. The Super Lig champions are believed to want between €70m and €75m for Osimhen, a figure Barcelona are reluctant to pay this summer.

Instead, sporting director Deco remains focused on finding a route to sign Julian Alvarez, even though Atletico Madrid have shown no willingness to enter negotiations. Barcelona have already added Karim Adeyemi and Anthony Gordon to their attacking options, but still do not have an established number nine.

Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic is another alternative being considered, although Barcelona’s financial limitations have restricted their ability to act decisively.

With Barcelona appearing to have stepped back from a move for Osimhen, Premier League clubs Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are now among the strongest contenders to sign the Nigeria striker before the transfer window closes.