Real Madrid Plot Osimhen Move as Mourinho Return Rumours Intensify

The upcoming La Liga title race is set to be profoundly influenced by a potential transfer battle for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen. With Real Madrid reportedly keen on bringing back Jose Mourinho, who sees Osimhen as crucial to rebuilding their attack, arch-rivals Barcelona are also vying for his signature as a replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

Precious Eseaye • Sports • 1 month ago • 2 minute read •

Key Points

• Jose Mourinho is reportedly close to returning to Real Madrid as manager after the club's trophy-less season.

• Mourinho has identified Victor Osimhen as his primary transfer target to rebuild Real Madrid's attack.

• Both Real Madrid and Barcelona are vying to sign Victor Osimhen, potentially making his transfer pivotal for the next La Liga title race.

Real Madrid Plot Osimhen Move as Mourinho Return Rumours Intensify

The race for next season’s La Liga title is already heating up, with Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen at the center of growing transfer speculation. Reports across Spain, Portugal, and Turkey suggest that Jose Mourinho could make a dramatic return to Real Madrid after the club endured a disappointing 2025/26 campaign.

Madrid finished the season without a major trophy and well behind champions Barcelona. A 2-0 defeat at Camp Nou confirmed Barcelona’s 29th league title and increased pressure on the club’s hierarchy. The season was plagued by instability, including the dismissal of Xabi Alonso in January and disappointing exits from the UEFA Champions League and Copa del Rey.

According to reports, club president Florentino Perez wants Mourinho back at the Santiago Bernabéu, with the Portuguese manager reportedly identifying Osimhen as the striker capable of transforming Madrid’s attack.

Mourinho has long admired Osimhen, having faced him in Serie A during his time at AS Roma. He has previously compared the Nigerian forward to Didier Drogba because of his strength, movement, and finishing ability.

Madrid has struggled to replace the influence of Karim Benzema since his departure, often deploying Kylian Mbappe centrally despite his preference for the left wing. Vinicius Junior has also been used out of position, contributing to the team’s imbalance in attack.

Osimhen’s pace, pressing ability, aerial dominance, and goal-scoring form make him an attractive option. The former Lille striker scored 22 goals and provided eight assists in 33 matches, helping Galatasaray secure another league title and reach the UEFA Champions League knockout stage.

However, Madrid could face competition from Barcelona, who reportedly view Osimhen as the long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski.Manager Hansi Flick is believed to admire Osimhen’s aggressive pressing and direct attacking style, qualities that fit Barcelona’s tactical system.

The battle for Osimhen’s signature could become one of the defining transfer stories of the summer. While the striker has expressed happiness in Istanbul, Mourinho’s possible arrival at Madrid may significantly change the situation.