Barcelona monitor rising star as Robert Lewandowski’s long-term replacement

SportsTak Desk

SportsTak Desk

UPDATED:

Barcelona monitor rising star as Robert Lewandowski’s long-term replacement
Robert Lewandowski in the frame (Image via Getty)

Story Highlights:

Barcelona step up their search for Robert Lewandowski’s long-term replacement as his deal winds down.

Competition heats up with other European giants monitoring the same forward option

Barcelona are reportedly turning their attention toward the future as they continue to search for a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski. With the Polish striker’s contract set to expire next summer, the Catalan giants are already preparing for the transition. Among the names on their radar is Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic, whose recent resurgence has reignited interest from Europe’s elite.

Vlahovic’s Juventus turnaround

Only months ago, Vlahovic’s career in Turin seemed on the verge of collapse. Juventus had placed him on the transfer list after he refused to extend his contract on reduced wages. With no serious offers arriving, the Serbian international remained at the club amid uncertainty.

That gamble has paid off. The 24-year-old has rediscovered his scoring touch this season, firing four goals and one assist in just four appearances. His brace against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League opener served as a reminder of his natural finishing ability and potential as one of Europe’s deadliest strikers. From near exit to central figure, Dusan Vlahovic’s revival has transformed him into one of the most sought-after forwards in the game.

Competition from Europe’s heavyweights

Barcelona will not have a clear path to securing Vlahovic’s services. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Atletico Madrid expressed interest in the summer, keeping the Serbian on their shortlist in case of squad changes. Though their frontline remained intact, Diego Simeone is known to admire the striker and may revisit the possibility in the future.

Manchester United have also entered the conversation. With their search for a reliable striker still ongoing, Dusan Vlahovic has emerged as a potential marquee signing. The Premier League club continues to weigh options as their current attacking setup struggles for consistency.

Barcelona’s urgency to rebuild their attack

For Barcelona, however, the stakes are much higher. Robert Lewandowski, who has been a talismanic figure since arriving at Camp Nou, will turn 38 in 2026. While his scoring instincts remain sharp, the club understands his prime years are nearing an end. Joan Laporta and Deco are determined to find a forward capable of leading the attack for the next generation, ensuring a smooth transition in their pursuit of domestic and European dominance.

With Dusan Vlahovic’s contract situation still unresolved and his stock rising rapidly, Barcelona face a critical decision. Whether they move decisively to secure the Serbian striker or explore alternative targets, one thing is clear: the Blaugrana are laying the groundwork for the post-Lewandowski era.