By Dorcas Francis Koji
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen was reportedly offered to Spanish giants Atletico Madrid in a proposed €75 million transfer, but the La Liga club declined the opportunity due to financial considerations.
According to Spanish outlet Club Uria, intermediaries acting on behalf of the Nigerian forward approached Atletico Madrid in recent days with a proposal that also included Osimhen’s willingness to accept a significant pay cut to facilitate the move.
The report stated that Atletico were informed they could secure the services of the Galatasaray striker for €75 million, with the player prepared to reduce his salary to fit within the club’s wage structure.
However, Atletico reportedly made it clear that signing another striker was not part of their immediate plans, with Argentine forward Julián Álvarez considered untouchable and Norwegian striker Alexander Sørloth also remaining in Diego Simeone’s squad.
Presenter Ruben Uria explained that the proposal came directly from Osimhen’s representatives but failed to convince Atletico’s hierarchy.
“They contacted Atletico Madrid’s board a few days ago with an attractive proposal worth €75 million. Osimhen was also willing to lower his salary considerably so it would fit within Atletico’s financial limits,” Uria said.
“Despite that, Atletico decided not to continue negotiations because Julián Álvarez is staying at the club, and club executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has no intention of selling him. With Álvarez and Sørloth remaining, there is simply no room for Osimhen.”
Osimhen currently earns one of the highest salaries in Turkish football following his permanent move to Galatasaray last summer. The Nigerian international reportedly receives around €15 million net annually, a figure further enhanced by Turkey’s tax incentives for foreign players. He remains under contract with the Istanbul club until 2029.
The 26-year-old has previously expressed admiration for Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone, fuelling speculation over a possible move to the Spanish capital.
Speaking after a UEFA Champions League encounter earlier this year, Osimhen praised the Argentine coach and Atletico’s playing style.
“I like him. I’ve always admired their coach,” Osimhen said.
“I’ve met him a couple of times. Atletico play with intensity and have a clear identity. Simeone has been there for many years, so the players understand his philosophy perfectly.”
Reports also suggest Osimhen had been considered by Barcelona as an alternative attacking option, but the Catalan club reportedly cooled their interest due to the financial package required to complete the deal.
For now, Osimhen’s future appears closely linked to Atletico Madrid’s transfer plans regarding Julián Álvarez. Unless there is a major change in the Spanish club’s attacking options, a move to La Liga remains unlikely this summer.
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