Victor Osimhen willing to cut wages to seal Atletico Madrid transfer

Victor Osimhen is reportedly prepared to accept a lower salary to help secure a move from Galatasaray to Atletico Madrid this summer, with the Nigeria striker also attracting interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The 27-year-old has spent the past two seasons at Galatasaray, initially joining on loan before completing a permanent transfer last summer. Despite his continued satisfaction in Istanbul, speculation over his future has intensified as he is increasingly expected to move to a bigger European club.

Osimhen has made a major impact since moving to Turkey, scoring 59 goals and providing 16 assists in 74 appearances in all competitions. His performances have made him one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe, although the financial demands involved could prevent several interested clubs from completing a deal.

Manchester United and Tottenham have both been linked with the Super Eagles striker. However, it is considered unlikely that either Premier League club will make a major attempt to sign him this summer because of the overall cost of the transfer.

La Liga’s “big three” have all been connected with Osimhen at different points during the season. Real Madrid’s interest was initially reported amid speculation involving Jose Mourinho, who is known to admire the striker.

Barcelona have also been mentioned as they continue to face the need for a new number nine following Robert Lewandowski’s exit. Atletico Madrid, meanwhile, are understood to see Osimhen as a possible successor to Julian Alvarez, who has been linked with a move away from the club.

Any deal would represent a significant financial commitment. Osimhen currently earns a gross annual salary of €20m at Galatasaray, while the Turkish club’s valuation of the player is reportedly above €100m.

Recent reports by Mundo Deportivo claim Osimhen would be willing to reduce his wages to make a transfer to Atletico Madrid possible. Should that move go ahead, it could set off a chain of transfers, with Alvarez potentially joining Barcelona. Such a deal could prove even more expensive than the proposed transfer for Osimhen.

The striker has repeatedly said he is happy at Galatasaray, but he has also spoken in previous interviews about his ambition to play in the Premier League. At present, however, a move to Spain appears more likely.

Osimhen is expected to make a decision in the coming days, although his next destination will depend partly on whether Atletico Madrid submit an official offer. Galatasaray are under no immediate pressure to sell, with the player still having three years remaining on his contract.

The club must also weigh the impact of losing their leading player while domestic rivals strengthen their squads. Besiktas have signed Leandro Trossard, Trabzonspor have brought in Mohamed Salah and Fenerbahce have added Mason Greenwood.

Sanctioning Osimhen’s departure at this stage of the summer could therefore carry considerable sporting risks for Galatasaray, particularly as their main rivals continue to recruit high-profile players.