Manchester United could enter the transfer market for a new striker this summer.
The Red Devils presently have Benjamin Sesko and Joshua Zirkzee as their specialist centre-forwards.
However, the latter hardly started games last season, and his future could be away from the club.
Amidst this, it has been reported that United have explored the possibility of landing Robert Lewandowski on a free transfer once his contract with Barcelona expires at the end of June.
The Poland international fits perfectly with the club’s requirement for a proven and experienced striker, who can complement Sesko as the club prepare for Champions League football.
However, a move could be difficult to pursue. United have no plans of meeting Lewandowski’s hefty wages at Barcelona. He may have to lower his demands to make the switch.
The legendary striker also has lucrative financial offers from Chicago Fire and Saudi Pro League clubs. It could take many weeks before he makes a final decision on his next club.
Lewandowski would be a statement signing
United have changed their transfer policy over the last two years, focusing on emerging talents and players entering the prime phase of their careers.
However, the Red Devils hierarchy could make an exception for Lewandowski, who would be an upgrade on Zirkzee despite approaching his 38th birthday.
Lewandowski was in-and-out of the starting XI for Barcelona last term, averaging just 54 minutes per game over 46 appearances. Despite this, he contributed 19 goals and four assists.
He had a shot-to-goal conversion rate of 22 percent, which is hugely impressive.
The Pole had no qualms in sharing his minutes with Ferran Torres upfront and could be open to accepting a rotational role alongside Sesko for the 2026/27 campaign and beyond.
Lewandowski, described as ‘world-class‘ by Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, may still need to accept a sizeable pay-cut on his £347,000 per week wages to secure a move to United.
The Red Devils are set to free up more than £600,000 weekly with the departures of Casemiro and Jadon Sancho, but they are still unlikely to pay over the odds to persuade any elite player.
Lewandowski may need to lower his salary to £200,000 per week to seal a free transfer. It remains to be seen whether the former Bayern Munich man will make a surprise move.
He would definitely be a statement signing for the Red Devils, given that he is a true match-winner on his day and has vast Champions League experience, with 109 goals to date.
United legend Rio Ferdinand has personally urged the club to secure Lewandowski’s services.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com