Barcelona have earmarked 27-year-old African striker as a plan B to Julian Alvarez – Report | OneFootball

FC Barcelona’s striker planning for the summer is becoming clearer, and it is not built around one name alone. Julian Alvarez remains the dream target, but the club are already keeping alternatives alive in case that operation proves too difficult.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Victor Osimhen is one of the main backup options Barca are considering if they cannot move for Alvarez. The report says the Nigerian striker is not first on the list but one they’ll consider should they not land the Argentinian.

Osimhen, now 27, has forced his way back into the picture after two strong seasons with Galatasaray, where the report says he has scored 56 goals in 70 matches. That kind of return is exactly why Barca continue to study the No. 9 market so closely.

Osimhen is under contract until 2029, which immediately makes the deal more complicated. That is an important detail. Barcelona may admire the goals, but they are clearly not looking only at finishing ability. Then, there is also the question of attitude.

That is an important detail. Barcelona may admire the goals, but they are clearly not looking only at finishing ability. Stylistically though, there is an argument to be made that the ex-Napoli striker might be even better than Alvarez.

A fully fit and in-form Osimhen guarantees goals like very few others can. He always seems to know where the back of the net is and playing alongside better creators at Barcelona, his output will only improve.

It remains to be seen how things play out on this front in the coming months and who Barcelona try to sign as their new number nine.