Robert Lewandowski’s renaissance this season reminded us all why Barcelona brought the Polish striker on board two years ago.
Following a stuttering 2023/24, the 36-year-old has regained his finishing touch, showing the world-class finishing that made him one of Europe’s most feared strikers.
But with Lewandowski now in the latter stages of his career, Barcelona’s sporting department is aware of the pressing need to bring in a long-term backup who can one day be the fulcrum of the team’s attack.
This urgent requirement has led manager Hansi Flick to spot Juventus’s Dusan Vlahovic as the perfect replacement for Lewandowski.
The 24-year-old Serbian international has all the qualities Barcelona would want in a center-forward – physical presence, technical ability, and an established goalscoring track record.
Vlahovic’s displays in Serie A, initially with Fiorentina and now with Juventus, have shown his capacity to play at the tip of the line with both brawn and technique.
He is one of the most promising young strikers in European football.
As Lewandowski keeps scoring vital goals, Barcelona’s plan is based on the fact that even the best strikers tire out at some point.
The Polish phenomenon’s contract expires in 2026, the ideal transition phase when he can guide Vlahovic while slowly passing on the baton.
It is the same model other top clubs have followed in successful striker transitions, with stability over a sensational, potentially destabilizing switch.
But buying Vlahovic will not come cheap. Juventus hold their star player in high esteem and will ask for a huge transfer fee, possibly even over €60 million.
Barcelona’s finances mean the transfer would have to be based on whether they can raise cash by selling players.
The club hierarchy is a bit of a puzzle – spending for the future while staying competitive in the here and now.
As the summer window of 2025 approaches, Barcelona’s attempt to sign Vlahovic will be tested by their planning and fiscal creativity.
Signing the Serbian striker would anchor their attack for a decade or leave them scurrying around when Lewandowski’s inevitable dip finally arrives.
Barcelona supporters, meanwhile, can enjoy Lewandowski’s Indian summer as the club breathes a collective sigh to see how it reacts to its next wave.
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