FC Barcelona is clear that, looking ahead to 2026, it has to get the big signing that it's planning right. Robert Lewandowski will leave Camp Nou when his contract ends and when he is already 38 years old. There is no interest in renewing his contract and the club is looking for a center forward capable of performing from the very first moment and making fans forget about the Polish striker, although it won't be easy.
Deco isn't wasting time, scouting and putting together a list of strikers who can fit into the culer style. The list is long, there isn't a decision yet, but it's expected that, as the months go by, it will get shorter until there's a final choice.
Surprise striker in Germany
What Barça wants is to bring in a "number 9" who fits perfectly with Lamine Yamal, both now and in the future. Given the current situation, Lucía Font has revealed that a name the sporting management likes is Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart.
At 23 years old, Woltemade's contract with Stuttgart ends in 2028, but his unbelievable potential has caught the attention of half of Europe. For some time, Bayern has been following him and, although it seemed close, nothing has been finalized yet.
Barça knows that to win the race for Nick Woltemade, it would have to pay about €65 million. It's a price that fits the investment the club wants to make for the "number 9" position. However, the decision hasn't been made yet, and his name, while still just one on the list, is gaining a lot of momentum.
Nick Woltemade, a complete killer
Nick Woltemade has become one of the sensations of European soccer. At 23 years old, the German had a spectacular 2024/25 season with Stuttgart: 17 goals and 3 assists in 33 official matches. These numbers have caught the attention of several of Europe's top clubs, including Barça.
Woltemade stands out for his size (he is 6 ft. 6 in. tall[1.98 meters]) and his ability to combine physical play with technique. He is an striker who knows how to bring down balls, play with his back to goal, and link up with midfielders, but he also has a striker's instinct inside the box. His reading of space and finishing accuracy make him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
At Barça, Hansi Flick would see him as an offensive resource different from the usual profile of culer forwards. His height and physical power would be the perfect complement for more mobile footballers like Lamine Yamal or Raphinha, providing alternatives in attack against packed defenses. In addition, his ability to play as a reference point or second striker would give the team tactical flexibility.
If he keeps his level, Nick Woltemade won't take long to make the leap to the European elite. Barça is analyzing the situation carefully and won't take long to position itself if he is ultimately the chosen one.