The upcoming transfer window could set Barcelona's course for the coming years. The club knows it will lose Robert Lewandowski at the end of the season. That's why the search for a center forward has become the number one priority.
Scoring has always been Barça's essence, and finding a reliable "9" is key. But that's not all: the prices of elite forwards today are prohibitive. Figures between €80 million and €120 million are being discussed (about 87 million USD to 131 million USD), and investing that much isn't easy for the club's current finances.
Joan Laporta is aware of this, so Barça wants to have the signing completed before the 2026 World Cup. The tournament could inflate the value of many players and lead to failed signings. In addition, waiting too long could turn deals that are now viable into impossible ones.
Three clear candidates for scoring
The sporting management already has three names on the table. The first is Erling Haaland. The Norwegian is Laporta's desired signing. His arrival would be a game changer and an economic challenge; if it happens, it will be the first option.
The second alternative is Julián Álvarez. The Argentine is seen as the most realistic option. His style fits Barça and, according to the board, he could leave for around €80 million (about 87 million USD). He is young, with potential, and seems born to lead the blaugrana attack in the coming years.
Finally, Harry Kane appears as the third option. The Englishman would bring experience and goals. It would be a strategy similar to Lewandowski's: a veteran forward who can perform at the highest level for a few more years. Kane would be a safe signing, although with less long-term potential than Álvarez or Haaland.
Ferran Torres in the shadows
Meanwhile, Ferran Torres faces an uncertain future. The arrival of a new "9" could relegate him to the background. His versatility allows him to adapt to several positions, but in the opponent's box he will have direct competition. This could affect his prominence and his minutes on the field.
The club will have to balance the squad. Ferran Torres remains a valuable player, but the responsibility for scoring could fall on the new forward's shoulders. Managing these figures will be key to keeping the team's balance and avoiding internal conflicts.
Deal before the World Cup
Barça is clear that the signing must be completed before the World Cup. Any delay could make the deal more expensive and complicate planning for the next season. The sporting management wants calm and certainty in this decision.
Haaland, Álvarez, or Kane: whoever arrives at Camp Nou before the World Cup will make the difference. Barça's future depends on it, and fans will be watching a summer transfer window that promises to be decisive.