Barcelona Eyes the Future as Lewandowski Era Nears Its End
Following a triumphant 2024-25 season under Hansi Flick—culminating in a domestic treble—FC Barcelona is already plotting its next big move. With star striker Robert Lewandowski approaching the final year of his contract (expiring June 2026), and turning 37 in August 2025, the club is preparing for a major transition. Sporting director Deco and president Joan Laporta are now actively pursuing a world-class successor amid financial constraints and fierce market competition.
Lewandowski’s Impact and Imminent Departure
Since joining from Bayern Munich in 2022, Lewandowski has been a dominant force at Camp Nou, netting 101 goals and providing 20 assists in 147 games. His 42-goal haul in the 2024-25 season was his most prolific yet. Despite his ongoing importance, Barcelona is not planning a contract renewal, and strong interest from Saudi Pro League clubs suggests he could soon be leaving European football.
Hansi Flick is expected to manage Lewandowski’s minutes carefully during the 2025-26 season, using Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo in false nine roles, while Barcelona accelerates its search for a long-term replacement.
Financial Limitations and Planned Player Sales
Barcelona’s ongoing financial struggles complicate the pursuit of a top-tier striker. To afford a marquee signing, the club plans to sell at least one major player in the summer of 2026. According to SPORT via Barca Universal, names like Raphinha, Gavi, Fermín López, and Andreas Christensen could be sold to fund the acquisition of a new No. 9.
With top strikers commanding transfer fees of €60–100 million, Deco has acknowledged that such a move is nearly impossible without significant income. Recent signings like Nico Williams and Joan Garcia show Barcelona’s ability to operate smartly, but replacing Lewandowski will require even bolder decisions.
Leading Striker Candidates
Barcelona has compiled a shortlist of potential replacements:
- Julián Álvarez (Atlético Madrid)
Álvarez is viewed as the ideal successor. After a stellar season with Atlético—scoring 29 goals and assisting 8—Laporta sees him as the perfect fit. However, Atlético’s reluctance to sell and a €100M price tag complicate matters. - Viktor Gyökeres (Sporting CP)
The Swedish striker scored over 50 goals last season and was once a top target. Although Arsenal now leads the race, Barcelona remains interested if a deal becomes financially viable. - Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)
Seen as a short-term solution, Jackson could join on loan with a purchase option. His mixed form at Chelsea makes him a gamble, but one Deco considers low-risk. - Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)
Rashford’s adaptability and United’s openness to a loan make him a feasible option. However, inconsistent form casts doubt on his ability to lead Barcelona’s attack long-term. - Ferran Torres (Barcelona)
Already on the roster, Torres has adapted well to the striker role and is seen as a reliable internal solution if bigger transfers fall through. His contract runs until 2030.
Fan Opinions and Tactical Considerations
Barcelona fans are split on the best path forward. Some advocate for a proven star like Álvarez, while others fear that the club may miss out on elite options. One fan remarked, “Isak was ideal, but he’s off to Liverpool. Who’s left in 2026?” Another pointed to the need for a striker who contributes across the pitch—not just in front of goal.
Flick’s evolving tactics lean toward a faster, more mobile forward rather than a classic target man. This may favor options like Álvarez or Jackson, though strong competition from clubs like Bayern, Arsenal, and Atlético could hinder progress.
Looking Ahead: A Pivotal Transfer Window
Barcelona’s approach to replacing Lewandowski reflects a careful blend of ambition and realism. The club hopes to end the striker’s time at Camp Nou on a high—possibly with a Champions League run—while laying the groundwork for the next era.
With Álvarez topping the wishlist and backup options in place, the 2026 summer transfer window could be a defining moment. If major sales go through and funds are freed, Barcelona may just land the star striker they need to stay competitive in Europe.
Who do you think should take over from Lewandowski? Share your pick below!
