Atlético Madrid have declined the opportunity to sign Victor Osimhen from Galatasaray, despite the Nigerian international being offered to the Spanish club for a reported €75 million transfer fee, according to Club Uria as cited by Goal.
Galatasaray initiated discussions through intermediaries, presenting the 27-year-old forward as a potential reinforcement for Diego Simeone’s side. Osimhen, who remains under contract in Istanbul until 2029, was reportedly prepared to accept a significant pay cut to facilitate the move. His current net earnings in Turkey are substantially boosted by favourable tax arrangements for foreign residents, making his willingness to reduce his salary a clear indicator of his desire to work under Simeone.
However, Atlético’s hierarchy opted against pursuing the deal. The club’s current financial constraints rule out an outlay of that magnitude during the ongoing transfer window. Additionally, the recent arrival of Julián Álvarez has secured the central attacking role. The Argentine forward, signed from Manchester City, is central to the club’s sporting project, and the management has no intention of sanctioning his departure. With Álvarez established as the first-choice option, Osimhen’s acquisition was deemed unnecessary.
The decision underscores Atlético’s disciplined approach to squad planning amid economic limitations. While Osimhen’s profile and enthusiasm aligned with the club’s competitive ambitions, the financial reality and existing squad composition left no room for a marquee signing of this scale.
Galatasaray will now retain one of Europe’s most prolific strikers, at least for the immediate future. For Atlético, the focus remains on maximising the potential of their current attacking options as they prepare for the demands of a new season.
