Atletico Madrid eye a blockbuster shock swoop for Barcelona’s standout ace, hoping to pull off a major coup.
The La Liga rivals, fresh off humiliating Hansi Flick’s side 4-0 in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg, see the veteran goal machine as the perfect Diego Simeone signing – a proven winner who could arrive on a free and transform their blunt attack.
With Deco prioritising youth and FFP compliance ahead of presidential elections, this Madrid inquiry adds intrigue to a saga set to dominate headlines.
That ace is Robert Lewandowski, the 37-year-old Polish superstar whose Blaugrana deal expires in June and who has five firm offers on the table, including from Atletico, AC Milan, Fenerbahçe, Saudi clubs, and Chicago Fire.
Atletico Madrid have already “touched base” with his camp, eyeing a repeat of their coups with ex-Barça forwards like Luis Suárez (2021 title hero) and David Villa, as reported by Fichajes.
Lewandowski’s 13 La Liga goals this season – despite rotation – plus leadership would slot seamlessly into Simeone’s grit, especially with Julián Álvarez’s future unclear.
Robert Lewandowski prefers staying at Barcelona, even on reduced wages, but awaits post-election clarity around March 15 before deciding in April.
Family life in Castelldefels trumps Saudi riches, yet Atletico tempt with La Liga prominence, no adaptation needed, and trophy pedigree.
Barcelona values his mentorship for Lamine Yamal and Raphinh, but eye replacements like Jean-Philippe Mateta or Álvarez, freeing salary for squad refresh.
For Hansi Flick, still leading La Liga by a point despite the Metropolitano meltdown, losing Lewandowski risks firepower post-Rashford injury woes.
Atletico Madrid, title contenders, gain by snatching a rival icon – Simeone’s mind games extend to transfers. Deco holds leverage with a renewal pitch, but five suitors shift dynamics.
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