Lewandowski’s Future at Barcelona: A Potential Transition

As the clock ticks down on Robert Lewandowski’s contract with Barcelona, the 37-year-old striker has become a subject of speculation regarding a potential exit as a free agent next summer. His representative, Pini Zahavi, recently stated, “Lewandowski’s contract with Barcelona expires in the summer of 2026, and no decisions have been finalized yet. We will need to observe developments in the upcoming days.”

In anticipation of a possible departure, the Catalan giants are beginning to strategize for life beyond their key player. According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona has compiled a shortlist of five forwards, featuring elite talents such as Julian Alvarez and Harry Kane.

The club’s financial department remains optimistic about securing a top striker transfer, with particular interest in Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez. However, to facilitate this acquisition, Barcelona must adhere to La Liga’s 1:1 economic rule. Once Lewandowski departs, approximately €40 million (£35m/$46m) will be available to support the recruitment of a new player.

Currently, Barcelona is nearing compliance with the 1:1 balance, with pending VIP seat installment payments expected by December. Out of the €100 million (£88m/$116m) owed in the 2024-25 settlement, €70 million has already been disbursed, with the remaining €30 million set to be received by December, thus enabling the club to achieve the required balance.

Barcelona also intends to establish a financial framework to accommodate the new transfer costs. The club anticipates that projected revenue growth following the full reopening of Camp Nou will assist in fulfilling these financial commitments.

In light of the financial constraints that precluded a move for Erling Haaland, Alvarez from Atletico has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed Lewandowski as Barcelona’s primary No. 9. The shortlist also includes Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane, Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen, Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy, and a more economical choice in Etta Eyong.

Eyong, who recently joined Levante, expressed his aspiration to play for Barcelona, citing Camp Nou legends Lionel Messi and Samuel Eto’o as his childhood heroes.

While Barcelona has not yet proposed a contract extension for Lewandowski, promising young player Lamine Yamal reportedly wishes for the veteran striker to remain part of the team. The budding relationship between the two, despite the significant age gap, has flourished both on and off the pitch, with Yamal viewing Lewandowski as a mentor. He believes that there is no one better suited to aid in his development and offer essential leadership.

Furthermore, Lewandowski has attracted interest from Serie A club AC Milan, where Zlatan Ibrahimovic is reportedly keen on securing his services. There have also been rumors suggesting that the seasoned forward might contemplate retirement from professional football.