Barcelona identify €75 million-rated striker as Plan B if Julian Alvarez does not arrive | OneFootball

A new top centre-forward is a priority for FC Barcelona heading into the summer transfer window of 2026.

As has been widely reported already, Atletico Madrid superstar Julian Alvarez is the preferred target for the Blaugrana.

However, any move for the Argentine international is unlikely to be easy as Atletico do not wish to sell him in the summer.

Victor Osimhen emerges as an alternative

As such, Mundo Deportivo reports that FC Barcelona are evaluating alternative options for the striker position as uncertainty remains over a potential move for Julian Alvarez.

Within the club, multiple options remain on the table for the No. 9 role, all fitting the desired profile. Barça have been preparing for some time, aware that this is a position likely to require reinforcement during the summer transfer window.

One of the names on the table happens to be Galatasaray and Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen, although he is not considered the leading option among the alternatives.

The 27-year-old has returned to prominence following two strong seasons at Galatasaray, where he has scored 56 goals in 70 appearances. He remains under contract until 2029.

Barcelona’s Plan B. (Photo by Burak Kara/Getty Images)

While Osimhen’s profile is appreciated, concerns persist regarding his temperament, which contributed to a difficult departure from Napoli in 2024.

Vlahovic, Sesko ruled out

Meanwhile, as per the report, other forwards have been linked with Barcelona but are no longer under consideration.

Dusan Vlahovic was seen as a potential bargain on the market, having not renewed his contract with Juventus despite recent discussions. While he could arrive on a free transfer, the Catalans do not view him as a suitable option to lead the attack.

Benjamin Sesko was assessed last year as a prospect for the future before leaving RB Leipzig for Manchester United in a deal worth €76.5 million. However, he has not met expectations at Old Trafford and Barcelona are not considering him as an option.

Meanwhile, although not a central striker, left winger Rafael Leao had previously attracted interest. However, he is no longer part of Barça’s plans following inconsistent performances with AC Milan.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.