Barcelona is reportedly strategizing its attacking options for the upcoming summer, with a significant focus on Robert Lewandowski. Despite widespread expectations that the Polish striker, set to turn 38 in August, would depart upon his contract’s expiration this summer, there are now indications that he might be offered a contract extension.
Lewandowski’s current season at Barcelona has been his least impactful, registering only two goals in ten appearances prior to his recent brace against Newcastle United. While he has attracted interest from clubs in Major League Soccer (Chicago Fire), Saudi Arabia, and possibly Serie A, Barcelona has not yet presented him with a formal offer. The player himself has stated he will make a decision regarding his future in the closing months of the season.
Barcelona Sees Lewandowski in a Role Similar to Cristhian Stuani
Following his recent re-election, Barcelona President Joan Laporta expressed support for retaining Lewandowski, though he delegated the ultimate decision to Director of Football Deco. Reports from Cadena SER suggest Barcelona plans to present Lewandowski with a new contract, albeit on a reduced salary. The club reportedly envisions him in a capacity akin to Cristhian Stuani at Girona, who has effectively served as an impact substitute, often introduced in the latter stages of matches when his team requires a goal.
The Impact of Cristhian Stuani’s Role
Despite accumulating only 4,192 minutes of play over the past three and a half years, Stuani boasts an impressive 44 goal contributions, averaging one every 95 minutes. At 39, the Uruguayan striker is two years senior to Lewandowski and has scored four goals in just 291 minutes this season.
Ferran Torres’ Future Appears Uncertain
However, with Barcelona reportedly targeting Julian Alvarez this summer and planning a new deal for Lewandowski, the future of Ferran Torres now appears precarious. Cadena SER indicates that Torres has been made available for transfer in nearly every window since his arrival but has consistently declined offers, preferring to remain at Barcelona. While he has proven to be a capable alternative to Lewandowski and shown his goal-scoring ability, manager Hansi Flick’s apparent focus on restoring Lewandowski’s form has reportedly created dissatisfaction for Torres.
