A soccer player in a light blue jersey in front of the FC Barcelona crest on a purple background.

Official, Barça Signs Europe's Best Striker: Much Better Than Haland and Isak

The management already knows very clearly who Lewandowski's natural replacement is

FC Barcelona Continues to Strengthen Its Squad for the Upcoming Season. Hansi Flick has made it clear that the priority is to sign a forward, someone who can share the attack with Lewandowski and, in the future, take his place.

Deco has already made a decision. Although Haaland and Isak were the desired names, Barça has found a more accessible alternative with enormous potential.

Alexander Isak celebrating a goal | @alex_isak

The Impossible Dream of Haaland and Isak

In an ideal world, Barça would try to sign Erling Haaland, but the reality is different. The Norwegian is the big star of Manchester City, and signing him is unfeasible. His release clause exceeds 200M euros, and his salary is unattainable for the blaugrana economy.

Although any team would like to have him, Barça must look toward more realistic options.

A player wearing the Manchester City jersey poses in front of the team's crest, which has a big red X over it.
Erling Haaland Doubts His Continuity at City | @carpetasFCB

Another name that has been on the table is Alexander Isak, a forward from Newcastle. His mobility, ability to play between the lines, and goal-scoring instinct make him an ideal profile for Barça. Additionally, he already knows LaLiga, which would facilitate his adaptation.

However, signing him is very difficult. Newcastle won't let him go for less than 120M euros, and Arsenal has also entered the fray. With so many difficulties, Deco has decided to look toward another profile.

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

The Ideal Forward for Barça

Faced with the impossibility of signing Haaland and the difficulties in bringing Isak, Barça has found a perfect alternative. It is Benjamin Sesko, a Slovenian forward from RB Leipzig. At just 20 years old, he has become one of the great promises of European soccer.

His imposing physique (6 ft. 5 in.[1.95 meters]), speed, and finishing ability are reminiscent of Haaland. Additionally, his mobility and associative play fit perfectly with Barça's style.

The great attraction of Sesko is his price. For less than 60M euros, the blaugrana club could close his signing, a much more reasonable figure than those of Isak or Haaland.

Deco Speeds Up Negotiations

Barça's sporting director is already in contact with Leipzig. Sesko has a contract until 2028, but his release clause is manageable.

At Barça, they know they can't let this opportunity pass. Manchester United and Chelsea have also shown interest, but the Slovenian forward prefers to play in a team with a more technical play style. If Barça acts quickly, they could close the signing in the coming weeks.

With the impossibility of signing Haaland and the difficulties with Isak, Barça has found the ideal option in Benjamin Sesko. Young, with projection, and a reasonable price, his signing will allow Barça to secure the future of its forward line and prepare for Lewandowski's succession. Deco is clear: Benjamin Sesko is the forward Barça needs.