Robert Lewandowski, one of Barcelona's star transfers, is in the prime of his career. The Polish striker has proven to be a key piece in Hansi Flick's system. He's standed out both due to his goalscoring ability and his leadership in the Barça forward line. However, Barça is already planning for the future. This includes finding a replacement ready for the moment when Robert Lewandowski's contract terminates.
Barça is aware that Lewandowski's physical performance could be affected in the coming years. At 36, keeping up with his elite level is a constant challenge. For this reason, the club's sporting management is exploring options in the market to ensure they have a quality replacement.
Barça and Its Long-term Transfer Strategy
Barça has learned from past situations and is now looking to prevent having a void in their forward line when Lewandowski leaves. The arrival of Vitor Roque was, at the time, an example of Barça's new strategy: signign young talents and ensuring their gradual adaptation. Roque, with his attacking qualities and youth, is emerging as a promising prospect. However, the club is also looking for another striker to complement attack.
In this context, the name of Viktor Gyökeres has begun to be heard among the candidates to take Lewandowski's place. Barça is considering an investment of 60 million euros to secure the transfer of the Swedish striker. However, the plans won't be settled until 2026, when Lewandowski's contract ends and the position is left in the team.
Viktor Gyökeres: the Ideal Profile for Barça after Lewandowski
Gyökeres is a striker who's drawn attention for his ability to move freely in the area and his physical strength. At 25, he would be a transfer who would ensure both youth and experience at the highest European level. Barça sees him as a natural successor to Lewandowski. His style of play would fit well into the team and who could quickly adapt to Flick's system.
Barça's board has opted for a preventative approach to its transfers, thus ensuring that the team remains competitive in the long term. With Gyökeres, the club is looking not just for a replacement for Lewandowski, but for a player who will add value from day one.