Barcelona opts against Osimhen transfer over wage demands

Barcelona has ruled out a move for striker Victor Osimhen this summer, primarily due to his exorbitant salary demands, which have emerged as the major stumbling block. The Catalan giants had been monitoring the 27-year-old Nigerian international, who has impressed as a prolific striker in Europe.

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The biggest obstacle is his wage package. Osimhen reportedly earns around €15m net per season, in addition to bonuses and his image rights, while he has shown no willingness to reduce his demands.

According to reports, Osimhen earns approximately €15 million net per season, plus bonuses and image rights. He has shown no inclination to lower these demands. Barcelona, still grappling with significant financial restrictions, is unwilling to disrupt its wage structure to accommodate such a high earner. The club is searching for a proven No. 9 to replace Robert Lewandowski, who departed for MLS side Chicago Fire.

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Such a financial commitment is considered too high for Barcelona, who are still operating under significant financial restrictions and are unwilling to disrupt their wage structure to accommodate the former Napoli striker.

Beyond the wages, Osimhen's transfer fee also presents a substantial investment. Galatasaray reportedly values the striker at around €75 million. While his goal-scoring record is undeniable, Barcelona has concluded that the overall cost of the deal is not financially sensible. Concerns about Osimhen's temperament and potential impact on dressing-room harmony have also factored into the decision.

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His transfer fee would also represent a substantial investment, with Galatasaray reportedly valuing him at around €75m.

Osimhen boasts an impressive record, having scored 76 goals in 133 appearances for Napoli before his move to Galatasaray, where he continued his scoring form with 59 goals in 74 matches. Tottenham Hotspur has shown strong interest, reportedly making an initial offer of €60 million, which Galatasaray rejected. However, for Barcelona, the decision to pursue other options has already been made, with the financial package required to secure Osimhen deemed too prohibitive.

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While his ability is not in question, Barcelona are understood to have concluded that the potential complications outweigh the benefits.