FC Barcelona are privileged to have one of the greatest strikers of his generation leading their attack. Robert Lewandowski has been exceptional this season under Hansi Flick, bouncing back impressively from a challenging campaign last year.
At 36, the Polish veteran continues to defy age, showcasing remarkable consistency and longevity. Few players in Europe, past or present, can match his enduring excellence. This season, he’s even outscoring Erling Haaland in Europe, proving that he remains at the top of his game.
However, with age inevitably catching up, Barcelona’s Sporting Director Deco has reportedly begun planning for life after Lewandowski. As per Fichajes, the two names that the Portuguese have identified include Viktor Gyokeres and Jonathan David.
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN - MARCH 25: Viktor Gyokeres of Sweden looks on during the international friendly match between Sweden and Albania at Friends Arena on March 25, 2024 in Stockholm, Sweden.
Photo by Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images
1: Viktor Gyokeres
The Swedish striker, currently the only player outscoring Lewandowski in Europe, is in the form of his life. Gyökeres has been turning heads with his consistency and goal-scoring prowess, making him one of the hottest properties in European football.
Barcelona are exploring different solutions to try and sign the Swedish striker. Considering their financial situation and the fact that Lewandowski still plays at a very high level, this transfer would be a difficult one to pull off for Deco.
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 05: Jonathan David of Canada celebrates the victory after the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024 quarter-final match between Venezuela and Canada at AT&T Stadium on July 05, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.
Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images
2: Jonathan David
The other name on Deco’s shortlist is Canadian striker Jonathan David. Set to become a free agent at the end of the season, David represents a financially viable option for Barcelona, given the club’s ongoing financial challenges.
The plan, as outlined, would involve signing David to initially share responsibilities with Lewandowski, gradually preparing him to take over as the team’s leading forward.
However, Barcelona are reportedly weighing the pros and cons of this potential signing. While David boasts impressive credentials and significant potential, he may not yet be in the same league as Gyökeres or Lewandowski. The club will need to carefully assess whether he fits the profile of a long-term successor to their prolific Polish striker.
How far can Lewandowski go?
Robert Lewandowski is showing no signs of slowing down. He looks as fit as he has ever been and is in perfect shape to continue for a few seasons. However, at 36, you cannot take anything for granted, and let’s wait and see how it goes.
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BARCELONA, SPAIN - OCTOBER 20: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the La Liga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Sevilla FC at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on October 20, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 25: Mohamed Salah of Liverpool looks on before the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Brentford FC at Anfield on August 25, 2024 in Liverpool, England.