As FC Barcelona basks in the glory of a triumphant 2024–25 campaign under new manager Hansi Flick—highlighted by a domestic treble—the club is already laying the groundwork for a pivotal transition.
With Robert Lewandowski nearing the twilight of his career and the final year of his contract approaching, sporting director Deco and club president Joan Laporta are focused on identifying a long-term successor to the prolific striker.
Although Lewandowski’s deal runs through June 2026, he will be 37 years old by August 2025, and his future beyond that point remains uncertain.
Since his arrival from Bayern Munich in 2022, Lewandowski has delivered world-class performances, scoring 101 goals and providing 20 assists in 147 appearances.
His 2024–25 campaign was particularly outstanding, with 42 goals in all competitions—proof that he remains a force.
Yet with no signs of contract renewal and interest reportedly coming from Saudi clubs, Barcelona is aware that a changing of the guard is on the horizon.
For the 2025–26 season, Flick still sees Lewandowski playing a vital role, albeit with reduced minutes.
Players like Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo are expected to contribute as false nines as the club begins to adapt to life after Lewandowski.
The urgency to find a true successor is mounting, especially given the modern game’s demand for more dynamic and versatile forwards.
Barcelona’s search, however, is constrained by ongoing financial limitations. To afford a top-tier striker, the club plans to sell at least one key player in the summer of 2026.
Reports suggest that Raphinha, Gavi, Fermín López, or Andreas Christensen could be sacrificed to finance a marquee signing, with Deco stating that without a major sale, a big move is unlikely.
Among the top targets is Julián Álvarez, currently thriving at Atlético Madrid after scoring 29 goals and registering 8 assists last season.
Although seen as the perfect fit, he comes with a steep €100 million price tag. Other names include Viktor Gyökeres of Sporting CP, Nicolas Jackson of Chelsea, Marcus Rashford from Manchester United, and even in-house option Ferran Torres.
Fan opinion is mixed—some crave a blockbuster signing, while others are wary of the financial risks and lack of clear-cut options.
Regardless, Barcelona appears committed to a future-focused approach, hoping to ensure a smooth transition from Lewandowski to the next great striker at Camp Nou.
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