Barça still fully trust Robert Lewandowski as its main offensive reference for next season. For that reason, the priority in the transfer market has shifted to other positions.
The focus is specifically on the left winger, on Nico Williams specifically, whose signing is very advanced. With his arrival, Barça would cover the need for dribbling down the wing and would give the team greater depth, speed, and imbalance.
In 2026, goodbye to Lewandowski and major investment in the number 9
However, at Barça, they are already looking beyond this season. Lewandowski's contract ends in June 2026 and, at that time, the club wants to make the change. In this regard, age is leading the sporting management to already think about and plan a major investment in a new number 9 for the summer of 2026.
It will be then when Barça look for a guaranteed replacement with the potential to lead the attack for the coming years. The idea is to bring in a proven striker, with experience at the highest level, who performs from day one.
Julián Álvarez and Alexander Isak, the main targets
Among the names being considered by the sporting management, Julián Álvarez and Alexander Isak stand out. Both strikers are favored by both the coaching staff and the scouting department, and their profiles are ideal for Barça.
However, their signing wouldn't be cheap. Both the Argentine and the Swede are valued at figures above €100 million (over €100 million), so Barça will need to prepare financially for a major operation. The hope is that by then the club will have improved its financial situation and will be able to pursue one of these signings without compromising financial balance.
Julián Álvarez eager to wear the blaugrana jersey
According to El Nacional, Julián Álvarez would be delighted with the possibility of playing for Barça. The Argentine striker believes that the style of the Catalan team fits his characteristics perfectly and values Flick very positively as an offensive coach who is close to the players. In addition, His current situation could accelerate his departure next summer.
Julián isn't satisfied at Atlético de Madrid. This frustration could facilitate his departure and open the door to Barça in 2026, just when the blaugrana club will need a new reference number 9. Everything seems to be aligning for both paths to cross very soon.