Sports News of Saturday, 14 February 2026

Source: thenationonlineng.net

Atletico Madrid eye Osimhen as Alvarez’s replacement

Victor Osimhen Victor Osimhen

Spanish La Liga club Atletico Madrid are mulling over a move for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen this summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

Los Rojiblancos face an uncertain window, as they could lose one of their two top strikers—Julián Alvarez or Alexander Sørloth.

While Alvarez has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks, reports suggest that Atlético are also looking to offload Sørloth amid interest from Fenerbahçe, Juventus, and several clubs in the lucrative Saudi Pro League. Regardless of which striker departs, Los Rojiblancos are assured of a premium payday. While he’s not featured as much for Hansi Flick’s side this season, his replacement, Ferran Torres, hasn’t been consistent in front of goal, meaning Barca have no choice but to prepare for a big-money striker hunt.

Galatasaray have slapped an €80m sell-on fee on the 2023 CAF Player of the Year, as they prepare to recoup the €75m they spent to get him in from Napoli last summer.

With Julian Alvarez linked to a return to the English Premier League, Atletico Madrid are looking to secure Osimhen’s services, which would see him reunite with his Nigerian compatriot, Ademola Lookman.

As per Fichajes, Los Rojiblancos are now prepared to go all-in for the ex-Napoli man after their coach, Diego Simeone, gave a go-ahead to the club board.

While the player’s willingness to test himself in one of the best leagues in the world could be appealing, the wage bill could be a concern for both Atleti and Barcelona.