Barcelona are steadily climbing the La Liga table as Hansi Flick’s side continue to find rhythm, with key attacking players returning from injury and youngsters showing glimpses of potential in recent fixtures.
The Camp Nou faithful have been buzzing over Marcus Rashford’s loan impact, and the club’s scouting network has been active across Europe, keeping tabs on emerging stars.
Meanwhile, contract renewals are a priority behind the scenes, with the club keen to secure long-term stability before any major transfer moves.
Financial prudence remains central to Barcelona’s strategy, as the club balances salary constraints with the need to strengthen its squad for future campaigns.
Amid this backdrop, attention is increasingly turning to the forward line, as Barcelona prepare for life after Robert Lewandowski.
The Poland international’s contract expires at the end of the 2025/26 season, and although the Catalans hold an option to extend for another year, his recent injury troubles have made the club cautious about retaining him.
Lewandowski’s focus is firmly on leading Barcelona to another La Liga crown and potentially representing Poland at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaving Barcelona to plan for the striker succession.
Marcus Rashford’s loan spell has provided the club with an exciting alternative.
The Manchester United forward has made a strong start in Catalonia, impressing Hansi Flick with his pace, versatility, and goal-scoring instinct.
Barcelona hold a non-binding purchase clause of £30m ($40m) for Rashford, but negotiations in 2026 could see this fee reduced to around £26m ($35m), aided by funds freed up from Lewandowski’s anticipated exit.
Scouts have been busy identifying potential options, including keeping a close eye on former Red Devils teammate Mason Greenwood, as per TBR Football.
Mason Greenwood, now starring at Marseille, netted four goals in a 6-2 Ligue 1 win over Le Havre, having finished last season joint top of the scoring charts with 21 goals.
Initially spotted by Barcelona during his loan at Getafe, Mason Greenwood remains a tantalising prospect, though his £35m ($47m) valuation and United’s 50% sell-on clause make a deal challenging.
Barcelona’s plans for 2026 are clear: they are preparing to refresh their attacking options while balancing financial constraints, with Rashford emerging as a likely candidate to take on a leading role in Flick’s squad.
With Lewandowski potentially departing, the Catalan giants are poised to reshape their forward line while keeping an eye on Europe’s most promising talent.
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