A player with blonde hair touches his head in front of the FC Barcelona crest against a pink background.

Not Haaland, not Julián Álvarez: Barça will sign Europe's top-level striker, official

FC Barcelona has already made a decision for the future: There will be a successor for Lewandowski

Barcelona has launched its most ambitious operation for the upcoming transfer windows. The sporting management is working tirelessly to solve an urgent need: finding a successor for Lewandowski. The club wants to secure a reliable offensive reference before the Polish striker bids farewell to Camp Nou.

Lewandowski remains important in the squad, but the reality is that time doesn't stop. At 37 years old (August 2026), the striker is entering his final season at the highest level. Barcelona's sporting leadership can't afford improvisation.

The new "9" will be key for Barcelona's post-reconstruction sporting planning. The project led by Hansi Flick needs a striker with physicality, mobility, finishing, and instinct. The current model requires a forward capable of pressing, combining, and reaching the box with constant danger.

A player in a blue uniform scratches his head while standing in the rain at a stadium.
The Polish player has offers | @FCBarcelona

Deco and Laporta's new priority

With the economy stabilizing thanks to the return to Camp Nou, Barcelona has unlocked salary margin for major operations. In the offices, a clear decision has already been made: the star signing must be a Champions-level striker. The name has already been decided and official moves are underway.

This is a complex operation, but it's already advanced. According to internal club sources, there is understanding among all parties. The footballer is delighted with the possibility of wearing the blaugrana jersey and has rejected offers from the Premier League and Bundesliga to prioritize the culé sporting project.

Within the coaching staff, there is absolute consensus, Flick wants a striker with modern characteristics, more dynamic and self-sufficient than Lewandowski. Someone capable of creating danger with runs off the ball, but also strong with his back to goal. Above all, with guaranteed goals every season.

A football player in an FC Barcelona uniform celebrates by raising a finger.
Robert Lewandowski in a match with Barça | @FCBarcelona

A signing that will change Barcelona

Barcelona isn't willing to pay exorbitant amounts, but they are considering a significant financial effort. The operation is said to be close to €65 million (about $70.8 million), manageable if the club completes several sales before next summer. The planning includes income from players like Ansu.

This signing is intended to lead the new Barcelona for the next five years. It's not just a sporting addition, but also a strategic bet. The club seeks to build a new competitive identity based on young talent, physicality, and hunger for titles.

Talks between Barcelona and the player's camp are progressing well. The footballer's camp is aligned with the idea of making the leap to a team with greater European projection. The situation at his current club, which has separated him from the group during preseason, has accelerated the entire process.

A soccer player smiles while wearing a red bib during training.
Ansu Fati with Barça | @FCBarcelona

The hidden gem that excites Barcelona fans

For months, many took it for granted that Barcelona would go for Haaland. Others dreamed of Julián Álvarez, especially after his secondary role at City. But in the end, neither will be the chosen one, Barcelona has gone a step further, betting on a profile that fits much better with Flick's style.

Now, it's time to reveal his identity. The best striker in Europe according to the club's technical reports, the one who convinces the most due to age, style, and performance, has already been separated from Newcastle for refusing to renew his contract. His name is Alexander Isak.

The Swede will be Barcelona's next major signing if there isn't a last-minute twist. The agreement is almost closed, and only details between clubs remain. Joan Laporta wants this to be the statement signing to kick off a new era.

Alexander Isak celebrates a goal with his fists clenched in the black with white stripes of Newcastle United
Alexander Isak in a match with Newcastle | @NUFC