As Barcelona continues to navigate the challenges of the current season, club president Joan Laporta is already casting his gaze toward the summer of 2026. The forward-thinking strategy is tied to what may be a defining moment for the club: the anticipated departure of star striker Robert Lewandowski. In preparation, Barcelona is actively planning a major attacking reinforcement to usher in a new era.
The club’s sporting leadership is exploring top-tier options to replace the prolific Polish forward, with two standout names on their shortlist: Manchester City’s Julián Álvarez and Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak. Both players are known for their elite technical skills and attacking intelligence, positioning them as natural fits for the next phase of Barcelona’s project.
Of the two, Julián Álvarez is reportedly the priority target. The Argentine international is admired for his versatility, relentless work rate, and ability to link up fluidly in the final third. His playing style could dovetail perfectly with rising star Lamine Yamal, who Barcelona sees as central to its future. Sources suggest that a bid in the region of €100 million may be required to secure Álvarez’s services.
Should a move for Álvarez prove unworkable, Alexander Isak is seen as a strong alternative. The Swedish forward has delivered standout performances for Newcastle in the Premier League, showcasing pace, creativity, and a natural goal-scoring instinct. His price tag is expected to be similarly high—around €100 million—but Barcelona remains open to pursuing a deal if financial conditions align.
What makes this recruitment push especially significant is its alignment with the club’s plan to build around 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal. With Yamal expected to play a central role in Barcelona’s long-term attack, the search for a forward who complements his skillset is critical. The ideal candidate will offer pace, scoring consistency, and vision in the final third—qualities that both Álvarez and Isak possess.
Barcelona is preparing for a transformative moment in the transfer market. With Lewandowski’s exit looming, Laporta envisions a dynamic new partnership that could redefine the club’s offensive identity and strengthen its return to Europe’s elite.
While current efforts remain focused on this season, Barcelona’s 2026 ambitions are already shaping headlines. Whether Álvarez or Isak leads the next line, the decision is set to be a pivotal one—both on the pitch and in the club’s broader footballing legacy.
