Atletico Madrid have reportedly turned down the chance to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, choosing instead to keep faith with their current attacking options.
According to Club Uria, the 27-year-old Galatasaray forward was eager to join the Spanish club and was even prepared to accept a significant pay cut to play under Diego Simeone.
Osimhen has long admired Simeone’s style of football, reportedly becoming even more interested in the move after facing Atletico in a UEFA Champions League match in January.
Despite the player’s willingness, Atletico decided against pursuing the deal. The club remains fully committed to Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth, who are seen as the team’s long-term striking partnership.
Financial considerations also played a major role in the decision. Reports suggest Atletico currently do not have the financial flexibility needed to complete such a high-profile transfer.
Osimhen has also been offered to several other top European clubs, including Barcelona, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
Among them, Tottenham are said to have made a formal bid worth more than €55 million. However, the offer is still below Galatasaray’s asking price.
With Atletico no longer an option, Osimhen’s representatives are continuing talks with interested clubs across Europe and the Premier League in hopes of securing a move before the transfer window closes.
