Barcelona Eyes Osimhen as Lewandowski Replacement, Amid Financial Hurdles Loom

Barcelona are considering Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski, but financial constraints could complicate a potential summer move. 

Lewandowski, 36, has enjoyed a stellar season with nearly 50 goals, but with his 37th birthday approaching in August, the club is exploring future attacking options. According to *SPORT*, Barcelona have also received an offer from Juventus for out-of-favor striker Dusan Vlahovic, but concerns over his form and interest from Saudi Arabia and the Premier League have led them to explore alternatives. 

Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray, has impressed with 26 goals and five assists in 31 appearances. Napoli are reportedly willing to sell him for around €75 million, but Barcelona fear his transfer fee and salary demands may exceed their financial capacity. 

The club recently turned down the chance to sign Mohamed Salah as a free agent due to his €18 million-per-season wage demands. Meanwhile, Manchester United and Galatasaray—who hope to extend his stay—are also in the race for Osimhen. 

Barcelona’s financial uncertainty and sporting director Deco’s preference for a left-winger over a striker could further hinder their pursuit of a high-profile forward like Osimhen. 

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**Headline:** 
*Super Eagles Rise to 43rd in FIFA Rankings but Drop to Sixth in Africa* 

**Rephrased Article:** 

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have climbed one place to 43rd in FIFA’s first men’s world ranking of 2025. However, they have slipped to sixth in Africa, now trailing Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, and Côte d’Ivoire. 

Under coach Eric Chelle, the team had mixed results in their recent 2026 World Cup qualifiers—beating Rwanda 2-0 in Kigali before a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in Uyo. 

World champions Argentina remain top globally, with Spain, France, England, and Brazil completing the top five.