Lewandowski is facing his final season at Barça and won't stay beyond next summer. The club has communicated this internally. The striker's cycle at Camp Nou is coming to an end, and the board is already working on his successor.
The chosen one is Julián Álvarez
Neither Ferran Torres, nor Šeško, nor Gyökeres. Joan Laporta and Deco are certain about who should lead Barça's new attack: Julián Álvarez. The Argentine forward, currently at Atlético de Madrid, is the main target to inherit the blue and garnet "9".
Barça is ready to launch a serious offensive. The figure being considered is around €100 million. It's a significant investment, but the club considers it strategic.
Ideal profile for Barça's style
There is consensus within the coaching staff: Julián fits like a glove. Because of his constant work, his vision of the game, his goal-scoring ability, and his collective commitment. In addition, he has something Barça values highly: experience at the highest level.
He was world champion with Argentina in 2022 and has earned a place as an offensive leader at Atlético. Under Simeone's orders, he has evolved to become one of the most complete strikers in Europe.
Other candidates?
Several names have been mentioned in recent months. Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, and even renewed trust in Ferran Torres, but none are as convincing as Julián. Not in terms of style, projection, or reliability.
Laporta is clear about it: the bet is on him. It's not just about signing a good forward. It's about leading the project for the coming years with a player who can define an era.
The economic challenge
However, it won't be easy; signing Julián Álvarez requires a major operation. Lewandowski's departure will free up a significant portion of the wage bill, but the club still needs to balance its accounts. Either through a major sale or new commercial agreements.
Laporta and Deco trust they'll solve that financial puzzle before the summer of 2026. There is room, and this time they want to do it right.
A transition without improvisation
The most notable aspect of this move is the planning. Unlike other summers, when actions were taken out of urgency or improvisation, this time Barça is working ahead of time. Lewandowski will remain the "9" this season, with the support of Hansi Flick, but the club is already looking to the future.
If everything goes as planned, that future has a first and last name: Julián Álvarez, a new leader for a new Barça.