FC Barcelona continues working in the transfer market with the intention of finding a reliable replacement for Robert Lewandowski. However, the sports management led by Joan Laporta has received a major setback. The forward they had in their sights is increasingly unlikely to land at the blaugrana club.
The emergence of Arsenal in the race for the striker has seriously complicated the blaugrana club's options. Mikel Arteta has convinced the Gunners' board to go after the player, which could mean his final destination is in London and not in Barcelona. A situation that forces Barça to change strategy and aim for another goal-scoring player, but quite different.
According to the press in his country, Viktor Gyökeres is very advanced in negotiations with Arsenal for the next season. The current forward of Sporting de Portugal has been one of the big names on Joan Laporta's agenda. But he can't compete against the financial solvency of the English team, which seems decisive in bringing him closer to the Premier League.
Options for the Attack
Barça, with its financial limitations and Financial Fair Play restrictions, can't compete with the financial offer the Gunners have put forward. This has created uncertainty in the blaugrana sports management, which is already working on new options to strengthen the forward line for the next season. One of the most appealing options stands out in this Premier League and even has a past in Spanish football.
Barcelona's initial plan was to incorporate a forward with goals, physicality, and youth, something Gyökeres perfectly embodied. But given the clear lack of resources to enter a bidding war with English clubs, Joan Laporta and his team already have another name at the top of the list. With Gyökeres out of the equation, Barcelona is now targeting Alexander Isak.
Isak Is Laporta's Dream
The Swede, who is shining at Newcastle, has become the preferred alternative to strengthen the attack. His profile fits the team's needs and his goal-scoring ability is more than proven in the Premier League. It won't be an easy signing, as Newcastle is not willing to part with their star for a low price.
Joan Laporta trusts he can convince the player and find ways to fit the operation within the club's salary limits. Meanwhile, Hansi Flick continues to evaluate his internal options to find a replacement for Lewandowski. The German coach is considering giving more prominence to Ferran Torres as a replacement for the Polish striker.
Additionally, he has Pau Víctor, although for now, it doesn't seem he trusts him as a definitive solution. The search for a '9' remains open at Can Barça, and with Gyökeres increasingly distant, all eyes are on Isak. Laporta has a lot at stake in this market and must move quickly to secure a key reinforcement.