Victor Osimhen (foto: Getty Images)
Atlético Madrid are preparing for the possibility of losing Julián Álvarez after the World Cup and have reportedly identified Victor Osimhen as their preferred replacement.
Atlético Madrid are publicly insisting that Julián Álvarez is not for sale, but behind the scenes preparations for a difficult summer are already underway. The Argentine forward continues to attract growing interest from Europe’s elite clubs, with Barcelona especially active in recent weeks as speculation around his future intensifies.
Club officials continue repeating the same message publicly, Álvarez remains part of Atlético’s long-term plans. According to reports from Spain, however, sporting directors are already examining alternatives should the situation change after the World Cup. One name reportedly stands clearly above the others, Victor Osimhen.
The Nigerian striker remains one of the most expensive and highly regarded forwards on the market. Atlético see him as a player capable of replacing the goals and physical presence Álvarez would leave behind, although completing such a deal would be extremely complicated financially.
Osimhen currently plays for Galatasaray, who spent around €75 million to bring him to Istanbul last year, breaking transfer records in Turkish football. The club reportedly has no intention of negotiating cheaply, while salary demands create another obstacle. Reports suggest the striker earns around €15 million net per season, numbers that even Europe’s richest clubs carefully consider.
His performances explain why interest remains strong. Last season, the 27-year-old scored 15 league goals and added another seven in the Champions League, finishing the campaign with 22 goals in 33 matches across competitions.
Atlético are not alone in monitoring the situation. Manchester United continue following Osimhen closely and reportedly consider him one of the main candidates to strengthen their attack this summer. Madrid’s strategy appears simple: if Álvarez stays, major changes become unnecessary. If he leaves, they want to move quickly.
There is also an interesting connection between Osimhen and Atlético already. The striker faced Diego Simeone’s team in the Champions League earlier this year during a 1-1 draw in Istanbul and afterwards spoke warmly about both the club and its coach.
"I have always been a big admirer of Simeone. Atlético has a clear identity and plays very aggressive football. It is one of the best clubs in the world," the Nigerian said after the match.
For now, Atlético continue defending their position around Álvarez. At the same time, they appear increasingly aware that having a backup plan could become necessary.