The rumor that places FC Barcelona making a major signing in the summer of 2026 has been gaining traction for some time now. The latest to "jump" on the bandwagon is Eduardo Inda, director of OKDiario, who has revealed what Joan Laporta's real target is to strengthen the attack. Coinciding with Lewandowski's departure, the president is looking for a "9" and has set his sights on the best possible option: Erling Haaland.
It won't be easy, but it seems that Laporta might have a plan to convince Erling Haaland. The main problem is that he has a contract with City until 2034, and his release clause wouldn't come into effect until the final years of the deal.
Lewandowski, key for Erling Haaland
Financially, the key to this operation lies with Polish striker Robert Lewandowski. On June 30, 2026, his contract with Barça will definitively end, freeing up €32 million ($32 million) from the wage bill. That's what he earns and what would be allocated for Haaland's salary. He would arrive as a major star, aiming to form a dream attack alongside Lamine Yamal, one of his favorite players.
Laporta keeps an excellent relationship with Rafaela Pimienta, Haaland's agent. There have been several meetings on this matter in recent times, seeking information about his financial conditions. The Norwegian is more than open to playing for Barça, although it's true that, as of today, the desire announced by Eduardo Inda seems very complicated.
Laporta prepares a surprise for the elections
In 2026, new elections for the presidency of FC Barcelona will take place, and it's already known that Laporta likes to arrive with bombs. Fully aware of the club's financial situation, the president intends to win again with a signing that surprises and attracts the members' votes.
Erling Haaland is the chosen one, although there are other options on the table. This is a very complicated financial operation that will depend on tough negotiations with City.
In any case, Eduardo Inda has been clear in his latest report: neither Isak nor Julián Álvarez. The chosen one at Barça is Haaland, and Laporta is going all out to secure his signing in 2026.