Former Arsenal captain and football pundit Thierry Henry has identified Napoli’s Victor Osimhen as one of three premier strikers Barcelona should target to address their attacking needs, alongside Harry Kane and Erling Haaland. Henry stressed that the Catalan club requires a “real number 9” and a “top-level striker” who is a proven finisher, not a prospect.
Osimhen, 27, currently plays for Galatasaray after completing a permanent transfer from Napoli last summer. His impact has been immediate; he was instrumental in Galatasaray securing a domestic double of the Turkish Süper Lig and Turkish Cup last season. This campaign, he has maintained strong form, contributing 15 goals and five assists in 23 appearances across all competitions.
Henry’s specific recommendation centres on the necessity for Barcelona to convert chances created by their emerging talents. “When you have a talent like Lamine Yamal, who makes passes like that, you have to score. It’s simple. At this level, one chance is enough,” Henry told Sport. He framed Osimhen, Kane, and Haaland as the benchmark for “formidable scorers” and “proven finishers.”
The Nigerian international’s credentials are substantial. Prior to his move to Turkey, he was a key figure for Napoli, winning the 2022-23 Serie A title and finishing as the league’s top scorer. His profile combines physical power, pace, and a consistent goal return, attributes Henry believes are critical for a club of Barcelona’s stature.
This counsel adds to the ongoing discourse about Barcelona’s strategic planning for the striking position. With the club seeking to maximize the potential of its young forwards, Henry’s analysis suggests a preference for an established, world-class centre-forward to provide immediate end-product. Osimhen’s contract situation and performance in Istanbul ensure he remains a subject of interest for elite European clubs, with Barcelona now positioned as a potential destination according to one of the game’s most respected former forwards.
