Barcelona's offensive revolution is underway. With Nico Williams as an immediate target and Lamine Yamal established in the first team, the club is working with a medium-term vision to define the new offensive trio of the future. The departure of veteran players and the generational shift are part of the roadmap led by Hansi Flick, Deco, and Joan Laporta.
One of the key points in this transition is Robert Lewandowski's future. The Polish striker, who has a contract until 2026, could be experiencing his last season as a Barça player and as a starter. Therefore, the sporting management is already working on his replacement, looking for a young, competitive profile with a hunger for titles.
The chosen heir
Both President Joan Laporta and coach Hansi Flick are clear about who should be Lewandowski's natural successor: Julián Álvarez. The Argentine, currently at Atlético de Madrid, meets all the requirements to lead the Barça attack in the coming years. Versatile, dynamic, and with a great scoring instinct, Julián represents exactly what Barça is looking for in its new cycle.
For weeks, Laporta and Deco have internally discussed the possibility of going after the striker in the summer of 2026. Flick's approval has accelerated preliminary contacts with his camp. All of this is pending how his situation evolves at Atlético, where he hasn't managed to find the prominence or the style that best suits his game.
A signing with potential
At Camp Nou, they don't want to repeat the scenario of having to improvise a last-minute replacement. That's why the club is already preparing its offensive, aware that Julián Álvarez could look for an exit if Atlético doesn't improve its sporting project. The heavy defeat suffered in the Club World Cup against PSG (4-0) stands out as a turning point for the Argentine, who prioritizes competing for major titles.
With Flick's backing, Barça is determined to position itself in advance. The goal is clear: prepare the ground, convince the player, and have financial leeway when the right moment arrives. Julián Álvarez is already highlighted as the big name for the future, and Lewandowski's natural heir.