A long-term striker is definitely something Real Madrid needs to add to their roster soon. In the summer, Karim Benzema left the Santiago Bernabeu for Al-Ittihad, ending a historic 14-year career. However, the club failed to adequately substitute him. There is no doubt that Joselu has done an excellent job. However, he is 33 years old and is just playing for Espanyol on loan this season.
A top-tier striker capable of anchoring Real Madrid’s offense for the foreseeable future has to be signed. Obviously, the ideal candidate would be Erling Haaland. Although Kylian Mbappe excels on the wing, he might also be seen as a central forward.
Victor Osimhen is an alternative that should not be ignored. For some time now, he has been among Europe’s top strikers.
Osimhen was instrumental last season in Napoli’s first Serie A championship since Diego Maradona’s tenure at the helm. But where does the Nigerian forward go from here?
Chelsea target Real Madrid reportedly wants €150 million
In an interview with Kooora, Gianfranco Zola was asked about the ideal candidate to replace Benzema. Zola responded:
“To be honest, I’m not sure. Notable names like Mbappe, Haaland, and Osimhen—who I believe would be an excellent addition to Real Madrid—are among the nominees.
“Manchester City will not allow Haaland to leave easily, and Mbappe is different from Haaland.”
If pressed to choose just one, Zola would respond:
“If I had to choose, I’d go with Mbappe because of his charisma and skill, but I think Haaland or Osimhen would be more suited to play as an outright striker.”
Zola seems to think Osimhen would be perfect for Real Madrid based on his remarks. It may also be less difficult to sign him than Haaland.
Recent incidents have cast doubt on Osimhen’s future with Napoli. It is widely believed that the Nigerian international will be leaving next summer. However, it is not completely out of the question to go in January.
Signing the 24-year-old is likely to be a highly competitive process. According to The Telegraph, when Chelsea want to add a striker to their roster, Osimhen will be their top priority.
