Barcelona’s focus on long-term planning has taken on new urgency as the club looks to secure the next generation of attacking talent.
With Robert Lewandowski nearing the twilight of his career, the Catalan giants have been quietly compiling a shortlist of strikers who fit their evolving tactical profile.
Director Deco and manager Hansi Flick are reportedly in full agreement that any future No. 9 must combine power, pace, and technical intelligence, attributes that have become harder to find in Europe’s elite markets.
Barca’s recent scouting missions have stretched across Spain and beyond, with a particular emphasis on players already excelling in La Liga’s mid-table sides.
The club’s sporting department believes that emerging stars with proven top-flight experience are better suited to handle the pressure and style of the Camp Nou.
Against this backdrop, one name has rapidly risen to prominence and sparked serious internal discussions at Barcelona.
That name is Etta Eyong.
The Cameroonian forward has been in blistering form this season, first impressing at Villarreal before joining Levante in the summer, where his performances have caught the attention of top clubs across Europe.
Just 22 years old, Etta Eyong has displayed the kind of physicality and finishing ability that Barcelona see as a perfect foundation for their post-Lewandowski era.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona explored a potential move for Eyong during the last transfer window and have kept him firmly on their radar since.
However, they’re not alone in their pursuit. Reports from Mundo Deportivo suggest that Levante have already rejected a €30 million bid from CSKA Moscow, who currently sit second in the Russian Premier League.
Eyong’s release clause is set at €30 million for domestic clubs within Spain and €40 million for those outside Europe, meaning CSKA’s offer fell short.
Levante CEO Jose Danvila recently confirmed that offers for the striker arrive “every day,” but stated firmly that “this winter the player will not leave, mainly because our priority is to stay up.”
Alongside Barcelona, heavyweights such as Real Madrid, Manchester United, Manchester City, and Arsenal are also monitoring the player’s situation.
Eyong himself is reportedly keen to secure a deal in January that would see him loaned back to Levante until the end of the season.
With interest growing by the week, Barcelona may soon have to decide whether to act fast or risk losing another future star to a rival.
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