Joan Laporta has once again made a move in the transfer market and is already in talks with Hansi Flick about a possible offensive reinforcement for FC Barcelona. The blaugrana president is convinced that he has found a real bargain: a forward who would arrive on loan with a purchase option set at 40 million euros. A formula that would allow the Catalan club to circumvent the Financial Fair Play issues in the 2025/26 season.
The operation is in an advanced stage, with contacts between the board and the coaching staff already underway. Hansi Flick's arrival this year on Barça's bench has caused a significant shift in sports planning, with a clear commitment to strengthening the attacking front. Despite Robert Lewandowski having his best season since landing at Camp Nou, his veteran status forces Barça to think in the medium term.
At 36 years old, the Polish forward has shown that he still has firepower in his boots. However, the Barça leadership fears that his performance may drop significantly next season. For this reason, they are looking for a player who can take on offensive responsibilities if the former Bayern Munich player doesn't maintain his level.
Mendes Offers a Solution
The profile of the footballer on Barça's radar fits perfectly with what Hansi Flick is looking for in his project. The German coach wants a significant striker who not only has scoring ability but can also associate, move well between lines, and coexist with Lewandowski in the line-up. It's not about a simple substitute, but a piece that provides different solutions.
From the club's perspective, the forward in question could be a great complement to the current offensive scheme. With Dani Olmo in question, Pau Víctor lacking continuity, and Ferran Torres being a substitute, adding talent up front is essential. This new signing would not only strengthen the squad but also elevate internal competition.
A Loan That Eases Things
Moreover, the fact that the operation is proposed as a loan with a purchase option makes it particularly attractive. It doesn't force Barça to commit immediate financial resources, something crucial in the midst of economic restructuring. If the player's performance is satisfactory, the 40 million investment could even be considered low in the current market.
The sports management is clear that they can't wait for Lewandowski to show signs of fatigue to react. The option of Darwin Núñez convinces many at the blaugrana club, especially Hansi Flick. The goal is to have a balanced squad with real alternatives to face all competitions with guarantees.
Joan Laporta and Deco are working silently, but with determination, knowing they can't afford mistakes in such a delicate transfer market as the upcoming one. More progress is expected in the coming weeks, but everything indicates that Barça has a key addition for their forward line on track. If conditions don't change, the Catalan club could close one of the great bargains of the upcoming summer market.