Atletico Madrid Turn Down Initial Osimhen Approach

Fresh speculation has emerged over the future of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, with reports from Spain claiming the Galatasaray forward is open to joining Atletico Madrid and is even prepared to accept a significant salary reduction to make the move happen.

According to Spanish journalist Ruben Uria, Osimhen has been offered to Atletico Madrid through intermediaries in recent weeks.

The report claims the 27-year-old is keen on working under Diego Simeone and is attracted by the prospect of playing in La Liga, with Madrid said to be his preferred destination.

The report further alleges that Osimhen would be willing to lower his wage demands to facilitate a transfer.

However, Atletico Madrid are said to have rejected the initial proposal, not because of a lack of interest in the player, but due to financial constraints and insufficient cash flow to complete such a deal at this stage.

A transfer fee in the region of €75 million has reportedly been discussed, although Atletico are believed to consider that valuation unrealistic, with expectations that Galatasaray would demand an even higher amount for one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers.

Despite the current impasse, the report suggests the situation could change later in the transfer window.

Atletico’s ability to pursue Osimhen is said to depend on the sale of one of their leading forwards, with either Julian Alvarez or Alexander Sørloth potentially needing to leave before the Spanish club can revive its interest.

Neither Galatasaray nor Atletico Madrid has publicly commented on the claims, and there has been no official indication that negotiations are underway. For now, the reported developments remain speculative, although they add another chapter to the ongoing transfer interest surrounding the Nigerian international.