Robert Lewandowski is reportedly on the brink of announcing his departure from FC Barcelona, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season. The 37-year-old forward has spent the last four years with the Catalan club. While Barcelona has extended a verbal offer for a one-year extension, contingent on a significant wage reduction and a backup role, Lewandowski appears inclined to leave.
Recent weeks have seen Lewandowski adopt a non-committal stance regarding his future, with his role in the team becoming increasingly that of a backup striker.
Porto President Denies Interest in Lewandowski
Contrary to reports this week suggesting strong interest from Portuguese club Porto, President André Villas Boas has refuted these claims. Quoting Fabrizio Romano, Villas Boas described a deal for Lewandowski as “financially impossible,” effectively ruling out a transfer within the Iberian Peninsula.
Lewandowski ‘Very Close’ to Announcing Departure
Transfer journalist Matteo Moretto has corroborated the sentiment that Lewandowski is nearing the end of his tenure at Barcelona. Polish journalist Tomas Wlodarczcyk, speaking to Sport, has also indicated that Lewandowski is “very close” to announcing his departure. With Barcelona’s final home game of the season scheduled for this Sunday against Real Betis, it presents a potential final opportunity for Lewandowski to bid farewell to the fans, making an imminent announcement likely.
Potential Destinations: Saudi Arabia or MLS?
Further reports from Poland, as cited by MD, suggest that a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal could be lucrative for Lewandowski, potentially earning him up to €30 million per season over a three-year contract. Another viable option is Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer, who have expressed interest and are willing to offer approximately half of Al-Hilal’s proposed salary. While clubs like AC Milan and Juventus have also explored the possibility of signing Lewandowski, these options are currently considered less likely.
Ultimately, it appears that Robert Lewandowski’s successful period at Barcelona, which began with him being a key figure in Joan Laporta’s second presidential term, is drawing to a close after four years and three La Liga titles.