Osimhen receives transfer boost as Julian Alvarez moves closer to Atletico Madrid switch

Julian Alvarez and Victor Osimhen | Imago

Osimhen receives transfer boost as Julian Alvarez moves closer to Atletico Madrid switch

Ayoola Kelechi 20:10 - 05.08.2024

Julian Alvarez' move from Manchester City to Atletico Madrid could open the door for Victor Osimhen's departure from Napoli

Victor Osimhen's potential move to one of Europe's top clubs has been given a significant boost as Manchester City's Julian Alvarez edges closer to joining Atletico Madrid as the Argentine striker's imminent departure could help the Nigerian make a long-awaited move from Napoli.

Julian Alvarez close to Atletico Madrid deal

The Argentine World Cup winner is on the brink of leaving Manchester City for Atletico Madrid in a deal estimated to be worth around £70 million following his participation in the Copa America and Olympics.

Julian Alvarez scores the only goal of the game | Credit: Imago

Alvarez has been vocal about his need for more substantial playing time this season and Atletico Madrid having approached City twice this summer, are close to finalising a payment structure that satisfies both clubs.

Alvarez's exit will set a new departure record for the Premier League champions, surpassing the £55 million Barcelona paid for Ferran Torres.

Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez combined to destroy Croatia in the semi-final of the 2024 World Cup | Imago
Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez combined to destroy Croatia in the semi-final of the 2024 World Cup | Imago Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez combined to destroy Croatia in the semi-final of the 2024 World Cup | Imago

Alvarez has contributed 36 goals in 103 appearances for City, serving as a backup for Erling Haaland after the 24-year-old, who has won every major trophy in world football, joined City from River Plate for £14 million in 2022.

Impact on Osimhen's transfer prospects

Alvarez had been considered an alternative target for clubs interested in Osimhen, with Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, and Chelsea all exploring the possibility of signing the Argentine if they failed to secure the Super Eagles star.

Victor Osimhen and Antonio Conte in Napoli training. (Photo Credit: Imago)

With Alvarez now poised to join Atletico Madrid, these clubs will likely refocus their efforts on negotiating with Napoli for Osimhen, leading to increased urgency and potentially higher bids as options for a new striker diminish.

Victor Osimhen is expected to leave Napoli this summer || Imago

Chelsea, in particular, are now in pursuit of Atletico Madrid striker Samuel Omorodion and with Alvarez' arrival, the Rojiblancos might now be more willing to allow the Spanish-Nigerian forward to move to the Premier League.