As FC Barcelona celebrates a triumphant 2024-25 season under manager Hansi Flick—capped by a domestic treble—the club is already planning for a crucial transition. Star striker Robert Lewandowski, who joined from Bayern Munich in 2022, is approaching the final year of his contract, which ends in June 2026. By August 2025, he’ll be 37, and his departure feels imminent. With that in mind, sporting director Deco and president Joan Laporta are developing a strategy to find a worthy successor, despite financial challenges and intense market competition.
Lewandowski has been outstanding since arriving at Camp Nou, racking up 101 goals and 20 assists in 147 matches. His most recent season was his best, netting 42 goals across all competitions—proof that age hasn’t slowed him down. Still, with no contract renewal in sight and offers reportedly on the table from Saudi clubs, his time in top-tier European football may be nearing its end.
For the 2025-26 season, Lewandowski will still play a key role, but Flick intends to manage his workload carefully, relying on players like Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo to fill in as false nines. This transition highlights the urgency of finding a long-term No. 9 to carry the torch from one of the game’s modern legends.
Financial Challenges and the Need for Sales
Barcelona’s hunt for an elite striker is complicated by their ongoing financial issues. To fund a big-name signing, the club plans to offload at least one high-value player in the summer of 2026. According to SPORT via Barça Universal, names like Raphinha, Gavi, Fermín López, and Andreas Christensen are being considered for sale, with the proceeds going toward signing a new striker. Deco has made it clear: without a major sale, affording a top-tier forward will be nearly impossible.
With elite strikers commanding fees from €60 to €100 million, Barcelona will need careful planning. Recent signings like Nico Williams and goalkeeper Joan Garcia show the club can still make smart moves, but a marquee striker deal will require both sales and wage adjustments—especially with Lewandowski and Frenkie de Jong’s contracts both expiring in 2026.
Top Striker Targets
Deco and his scouting team have identified several potential replacements for Lewandowski:
- Julián Álvarez (Atlético Madrid)
The top name on Barcelona’s list is Julián Álvarez. Now at Atlético Madrid, the Argentine forward scored 29 goals and made 8 assists last season. Laporta views him as the ideal fit: mobile, hard-working, and lethal in front of goal. However, Atlético values him at €100 million and are reluctant to sell, making this a challenging pursuit for 2026. - Viktor Gyökeres (Sporting CP)
The Swedish striker scored over 50 goals for Sporting in 2024-25 and has long been on Barcelona’s radar. Though Arsenal is now reportedly close to signing him, Gyökeres remains an intriguing option—if Barça can afford the €60-70 million fee. - Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)
Barcelona is reportedly exploring a loan deal for Jackson, who has had an inconsistent spell at Chelsea. With Chelsea signing new forwards, Jackson could be a low-cost, high-upside short-term solution. - Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)
Rashford has been linked to Barcelona, with his ability to play centrally appealing to Flick. A loan-to-buy arrangement is being considered, but questions about his form remain. - Ferran Torres (Barcelona)
Internally, the club still considers Ferran Torres a possible solution. He’s been reshaped into a proper striker and is under contract until 2030. Deco believes in his ability, though Álvarez is seen as the stronger long-term option.
Fan Reactions and Broader Challenges
Barcelona supporters are divided. Some back a marquee signing like Álvarez, while others worry about the lack of quality options for 2026. One fan lamented that Alexander Isak would’ve been perfect—but he might be headed to Liverpool. Another emphasized the need for a striker who can contribute beyond just scoring, reflecting how high the bar is after Lewandowski.
Replacing someone with 101 goals in just three years isn’t just a numbers game—it’s about finding a leader who fits Flick’s more pressing, mobile tactical setup. Younger, versatile strikers like Álvarez or Jackson may suit the new style better than a traditional No. 9. Still, Barcelona will face stiff competition from major clubs like Arsenal, Bayern, and Atlético.
Planning for the Future
Barcelona’s approach reflects a clear long-term vision. While Lewandowski is expected to deliver in his final season—potentially aiming for a Champions League title—the club is preparing for a smooth transition. Álvarez remains the top priority, but with contingency options like Gyökeres, Jackson, Rashford, and Torres, the plan balances ambition with realism.
As the 2026 window approaches, all eyes will be on who steps up to lead Barcelona’s attack in the post-Lewandowski era.
