The center-forward is one of the positions in which FC Barcelona might have to make a significant investment going forward, as Robert Lewandowski is already 37 years of age, and with growing indications that this might be the last year of the Polish striker at the Blaugrana club.
Although the Catalan side continues to face financial problems, Mundo Deportivo reports the club’s financial department is confident that Barcelona can secure the funds required to sign a top-level goalscorer if the sporting area considers the operation essential.
Even though the club is still recovering financially, executives believe it is possible to put together a viable strategy to complete a significant transfer as long as certain conditions are met.
The first and most decisive factor is Lewandowski’s future. His departure would free around €40 million in Fair Play margin, which is the amount the club would need to allocate to a new elite striker.
That margin would cover both the salary and the annual amortisation of such an acquisition. Barcelona also need to return to the 1:1 Fair Play rule in La Liga.
The club is very close to achieving this objective as they await a scheduled payment in December related to VIP seat packages. With the remaining amount still to be collected from the operation, Barcelona expect to be in a position to register new signings under the more favourable rule.
The reopening of the Spotify Camp Nou is another crucial part of the plan. The club believes the growth in matchday and commercial revenue at the renovated stadium will provide the financial base to support a major attacking signing.
On the sporting front, the preferred candidate is the Argentine forward Julian Alvarez. Barcelona value his present level as well as his long-term potential. However, the situation may become more complex after the recent arrival of a new shareholder at his club.
Beyond Alvarez, there are several alternatives under consideration. Harry Kane is admired by Hansi Flick and has a release clause of €65 million. Serhou Guirassy of Borussia Dortmund and Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray are also among the options. Etta Eyong remains the most economical choice.
Barcelona are therefore convinced that signing a top-class striker is economically viable, provided the key conditions fall into place. The coming months will determine whether the club can move forward and secure the successor to Lewandowski.
