Barcelona’s Gyökeres push puts Super Eagles star high on Arsenal’s wishlist

Spanish champions Barcelona are set to make a move for Arsenal forward Viktor Gyökeres in the coming days, and that could have a direct impact on the future of Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen, Soccernet.ng reports.

Barcelona have been searching for a new centre forward since the end of last season, when Poland international Robert Lewandowski’s contract expired.

Their need for a new striker became even more urgent after Spanish forward Ferran Torres recently completed a move to European champions Paris Saint Germain, leaving Barcelona without an established senior centre forward option with only a few days to go before the start of their La Liga campaign.

Although Barcelona have already signed Karim Adeyemi, Rodri, Joao Cancelo and Anthony Gordon this summer, they still need to strengthen their attack, with a striker now one of their main priorities.

That search has led them towards Gyökeres, who could become an important option for the Catalan giants.

What Barcelona’s move for Gyökeres means for Osimhen

Barcelona had identified Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez as their preferred striker target for the summer, while they ruled out a move for Osimhen this summer.

However, with Atletico proving difficult to negotiate with over a potential deal for the Argentina international, Barcelona could now turn their attention towards Gyökeres as an alternative.

The Arsenal striker could be a more attainable option, and Barcelona may be able to complete a deal for him before the summer transfer window closes.

If Gyökeres leaves Arsenal, his departure could create the space needed for the Gunners to make a move for Osimhen.

Arsenal have recently reopened negotiations with Galatasaray over a potential deal for the Nigerian striker, while Osimhen’s comments after scoring twice in Galatasaray’s 2-2 draw with Corum in their 2026-27 Super Lig opener suggested that he could still be open to a move away from Turkey.

Arsenal would previously have faced difficulties fitting Osimhen into their squad, while his wages could also have presented a major obstacle.

However, if Gyökeres leaves the club, the situation could change significantly. His departure would free up space in Arsenal’s squad and could make it easier for the Gunners to pursue a deal for Osimhen.

Mikel Arteta is also a huge admirer of the Super Eagles striker, while Galatasaray could also be open to selling him if their valuation is met and they can find a suitable replacement before the transfer window closes.

The Turkish champions have been linked with Atletico Madrid striker Alexander Sørloth as one possible replacement for Osimhen.

For now, Osimhen remains a Galatasaray player, but Barcelona’s pursuit of Gyökeres could have a very big impact on the Nigerian forward’s future.