Cruel twist of fate. Victor Osimhen, one of the world’s most feared strikers, will watch the 2026 World Cup from home after Nigeria’s elimination in the play-offs. But while the planet’s finest players battle it out on American soil, the Galatasaray forward could be about to seal the biggest transfer of his career — to Real Madrid.
It stands as one of the most glaring absences of the 2026 World Cup. Victor Osimhen, 26 years old, African Ballon d’Or winner and dominant force in the Turkish Süper Lig, will not be at the tournament. Nigeria collapsed in the qualifying play-offs in November 2025, denying African football one of its brightest stars on the biggest stage. It is a painful blow for a player at the very peak of his powers — one that Osimhen now looks set to channel into a landmark summer transfer.
Multiple sources link Real Madrid with a serious move for the Nigerian striker, particularly if José Mourinho takes charge at the Bernabéu. Osimhen is contracted to Galatasaray until 2029, earning a reported €18.75 million per year, and any departure would demand a fee in the region of €75 million. A massive outlay — but a justified one for a player of his calibre. As the world’s stars light up the stadiums of the United States, Osimhen could be signing the defining contract of his career in Madrid.