Hansi Flick is acutely aware of Barcelona’s need for a new striker and has urged the club to do everything possible to retain Robert Lewandowski by extending his contract, which is set to expire next June.
Despite his remarkable performances, Lewandowski is now 36 years old, and Barcelona’s President Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco reportedly have reservations about a long-term commitment to the veteran striker.
Lewandowski’s future at Barcelona isn’t just about the club’s plans. The Polish forward himself may be inclined to seek a new challenge by 2025, possibly signing with a club that offers a lucrative contract.
Offers have reportedly come in from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United States, adding to the potential for his exit, which would leave a significant gap in Barcelona’s squad. The club would then need to secure a top-class replacement to maintain their competitive edge.
According to the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, Flick has a specific candidate in mind as Lewandowski’s successor: Victor Gyökeres. Initially seen by some as a potential “one-season wonder” — a player who shines brightly in one season only to fade away — Gyökeres has proven his staying power.
The Sporting Lisbon striker has had an even more impressive second season, helping his team to a league title and emerging as one of the best players in the Portuguese league.
Gyökeres’ performances have earned praise on a wider stage, notably for his hat-trick against Premier League champions Manchester City, which caught the attention of City’s manager, Pep Guardiola. His stats this season are impressive, with 23 goals and four assists in just 17 games, making him a strong contender for the top scorer title of 2024.
Believing that Gyökeres would be an ideal fit for Barcelona’s future, Flick has advised Laporta to secure the forward’s transfer by any means necessary, even suggesting the club meet Gyökeres’ €80 million release clause.
Although Barcelona has considered other possible replacements, such as Alexander Isak, Jonathan David, and Benjamin Šeško, Gyökeres has emerged as the preferred candidate. Flick remains confident that Gyökeres is the ideal choice to take over Lewandowski’s role, urging Laporta to prioritize his acquisition.
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