Lewandowski Nearing Barcelona Exit As Club Targets New Striker
Sports Updated: 23 May 2026 13:21 EAT
Photo Courtesy
Robert Lewandowski could be entering the final phase of his career at FC Barcelona as the Catalan giants reportedly begin preparations to replace the veteran striker ahead of the 2026–27 season.
Reports from Spain indicate Barcelona’s sporting department has intensified efforts to identify a long-term successor for the Polish forward, whose current contract is expected to expire in 2026. Club officials are believed to be planning for a younger attacking project under manager Hansi Flick.
Despite turning 37 this year, Lewandowski has continued to perform at a high level for Barcelona, remaining one of the team’s leading scorers in both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League during the 2025–26 campaign.
Barcelona executives reportedly appreciate Lewandowski’s professionalism and leadership but are increasingly concerned about the long-term sustainability of relying on an ageing striker as the focal point of the attack.
The former Bayern Munich star joined Barcelona in 2022 and quickly established himself as one of the club’s most important players, helping the team win domestic trophies while maintaining his reputation as one of Europe’s elite goal scorers.
However, financial limitations and the club’s ongoing rebuilding process are said to be influencing Barcelona’s decision to gradually transition toward a younger forward line capable of competing at the highest level for years to come.
Among the names strongly linked with replacing Lewandowski is Argentine striker Julian Alvarez, who is admired within the club for his versatility, pressing ability and tactical intelligence in attack.
Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen has also reportedly emerged as a major target, although the financial demands of a potential transfer could prove difficult for Barcelona given the club’s salary restrictions and transfer budget challenges.
Other elite forwards reportedly being monitored include Alexander Isak, Erling Haaland and Lautaro Martinez, with Barcelona scouting several top European attackers as part of their long-term recruitment strategy.
Sporting director Deco is believed to be leading the search for a new striker and has reportedly identified the signing of a world-class No. 9 as one of the club’s biggest priorities over the next two transfer windows.
Manager Hansi Flick recently acknowledged the importance of planning for the future while also praising Lewandowski’s continued influence inside the dressing room and his contribution on the pitch.
Barcelona are also considering internal attacking options, with Ferran Torres and several younger players receiving opportunities in advanced roles as the club evaluates potential long-term solutions.
Although no official decision has been announced regarding Lewandowski’s future, growing reports across Europe suggest the striker could leave Barcelona at the end of the 2025–26 season as the club prepares for a new attacking era.
Tags: Barcelona Barcelona Fc Signs Signs Media Signs Media Kenya Limited Signs Tv Signsmedia Signst Signstv Signstvfao Signstvkenya Signsv Sports Article Sports City Sports Commentary Sports Enthusiasm Sports Journalism Transfer News Transfer Window
Share this article
FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD