Following a triumphant 2024–25 season under Hansi Flick, in which Barcelona secured a domestic treble, the club is already planning for a significant transition. With Robert Lewandowski’s contract set to expire in June 2026 and the striker turning 37 in August 2025, Barça is actively searching for his long-term successor. Sporting director Deco and club president Joan Laporta are leading this effort, balancing ambition with financial prudence in a competitive transfer market.
Since joining from Bayern Munich in 2022, Lewandowski has been a standout performer for Barcelona, scoring 101 goals and contributing 20 assists in 147 games. His 2024–25 campaign was his most productive yet, netting 42 goals across all competitions. Despite his continued excellence, the lack of a renewal offer and growing interest from Saudi clubs suggest his time in Europe may be winding down.
For the 2025–26 season, Flick plans to manage Lewandowski’s workload by rotating him with players like Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo, often using a false nine system. This signals a transitional phase for the club and highlights the urgency of finding a suitable heir to their prolific No. 9.
Financial Constraints and Player Sales
Barcelona’s ongoing financial difficulties complicate their ability to secure a top-tier striker. To fund a major signing, the club is reportedly considering selling key players in the summer of 2026, including Raphinha, Gavi, Fermín López, or Andreas Christensen. Deco has made it clear: unless significant funds are raised, bringing in a world-class forward won’t be feasible.
With elite strikers commanding transfer fees between €60–100 million, Barcelona must be strategic. Their recent acquisitions—Nico Williams and goalkeeper Joan Garcia—demonstrate smart squad building, but a marquee No. 9 will require substantial financial flexibility, particularly with high-earning contracts like Lewandowski’s and Frenkie de Jong’s both expiring in 2026.
Leading Candidates to Replace Lewandowski
Barcelona has identified several top targets to lead the line post-Lewandowski:
- Julián Álvarez (Atlético Madrid)
The 27-year-old Argentine is considered the prime candidate. After scoring 29 goals and registering 8 assists in his debut season at Atlético, Álvarez has impressed Laporta and fits Flick’s dynamic playing style. However, his €100 million valuation and Atlético’s unwillingness to sell make the deal complex. Deco continues to monitor the situation closely. - Viktor Gyökeres (Sporting CP)
The Swedish striker had an explosive 2024–25, scoring over 50 goals. Though previously linked with Barcelona, Arsenal now appears to be leading the race. His release clause is €100 million, but a fee in the €60–70 million range might be negotiated. Financially, this may stretch Barça’s limits. - Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)
Barcelona is exploring a potential loan with a purchase option for the 24-year-old Senegalese forward. While inconsistent at Chelsea, Jackson is viewed as a lower-risk option who could provide immediate depth as Lewandowski’s minutes are managed. - Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)
The versatile Englishman, aged 28, is reportedly open to a move. A loan deal with an option to buy could be an affordable alternative, though his form has been inconsistent. Flick is intrigued by Rashford’s ability to operate centrally in his high-pressing system. - Ferran Torres (Barcelona)
Already within the squad, Torres has emerged as a potential in-house solution. He has been tested in the striker role and could serve as a reliable backup or transitional option if Barcelona’s pursuit of external targets proves too costly.
Fan Reactions and Strategic Hurdles
Barcelona supporters are divided over the club’s striker search. While many are excited by the prospect of signing a player like Álvarez, others are concerned about the dwindling pool of elite options in 2026. Some fans highlight the need for a forward who contributes beyond goals—someone who can replicate Lewandowski’s leadership and all-around impact.
The club’s real challenge lies in blending financial responsibility with competitive ambition. Lewandowski’s legacy of 101 goals in three seasons will be tough to follow. Flick’s tactical vision points toward a more agile, pressing-oriented style, favoring forwards like Álvarez or Jackson over traditional target men. The competition for elite talent from clubs like Arsenal, Bayern, and Atlético only adds pressure.
Looking Ahead: A New Era Beckons
Barcelona’s approach to finding Lewandowski’s successor reflects a calculated, forward-looking strategy. While the Polish striker aims to finish strong in 2025–26—perhaps chasing one final Champions League—the club is laying the foundation for a seamless transition.
Whether it’s a blockbuster move for Álvarez or a more pragmatic solution like Jackson or Torres, the 2026 transfer window will be a defining moment. With potential funds from player sales and Laporta hinting at a “superstar” arrival, the Blaugrana hope to maintain their attacking firepower and continue their resurgence on the European stage.
