Victor Osimhen Likely to Skip Barcelona Move, Says Dursun
Victor Osimhen is being told a Barcelona switch is unlikely, as former Fenerbahçe striker Serdar Dursun warned on 8 July 2026. The Nigerian forward finished the 2025‑26 season with 22 goals and eight assists for Galatasaray, clinching the Süper Lig title, yet top European clubs are still circling.
Dursun told Spor Smart’s Cup Diary that Osimhen’s “technique isn’t clean enough” for the Catalan side’s possession‑heavy style. He argued Barcelona now prefers players who excel in tight passing sequences, naming Julian Álvarez as a more natural fit. The critique focuses on ball‑control nuances rather than raw athleticism, suggesting the club’s scouting board is looking beyond goal tallies.
Despite the Barcelona skepticism, reports link Chelsea, Paris Saint‑Germain and Manchester United to the striker. All three have publicly expressed admiration for his physical presence and finishing record. Galatasaray, meanwhile, is preparing to fight hard to keep their star, aware that a summer exit could weaken their title defence.
Osimhen’s 22‑goal haul topped the league, and his eight assists placed him among the few forwards contributing regularly to build‑up play. He scored a brace in the decisive 3‑1 win over Fenerbahçe on 14 May, sealing the championship. Those numbers have fueled speculation that a move to a bigger league is inevitable, even if Barcelona’s technical demands pose a hurdle.
The pre‑season for 2026‑27 begins next week, and Osimhen is expected to announce his plans shortly. If Barcelona remains uninterested, the forward may negotiate with Chelsea or PSG, clubs known for accommodating powerful strikers. Galatasaray will likely set a high release clause, hoping to cash in on his market value while retaining a bargaining chip.
Losing Osimhen would force Galatasaray to reshuffle their attacking options. The club has identified several Turkish prospects, but none match his blend of size, speed and finishing. A replacement could cost upwards of €70 million, a figure that would test the Turkish side’s budget.
Barcelona’s focus on Julian Álvarez indicates a shift toward younger, technically refined forwards. The club’s recent statements emphasize a “ball‑first” philosophy, meaning they may continue to overlook physically dominant players like Osimhen. This approach could reshape the La Liga market, prompting other clubs to swoop in for talent that doesn’t fit Barcelona’s template.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Osimhen stays in Istanbul, heads to the Premier League, or finds a new home elsewhere in Europe. One thing’s clear: his next move will be a headline‑grabbing story regardless of the destination.