Lewandowski has been linked with Barcelona despite having a year left on deal
Once the final whistle blew on Bayern Munich’s last game of the season, almost all the attention turned to Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker saluted the fans as if it would be his final time.
As things stand, that appears to be the case.
In a press conference with the Polish national team, Lewandowski all but handed in a transfer request as he pushes for a move away from the Bundesliga side.
"“One thing is certain today — my story with Bayern is over. After everything that has happened in recent months, I cannot imagine further good cooperation,” Lewandowski said.“I realize a transfer will be the best solution for both sides.”Source: ESPN"
The striker has one year left on his current deal and is not going to sign an extension. He believes he’s accomplished everything he can at Bayern and wants a change of scenery. With a year remaining, however, any club who would like to acquire him would need to pay a fee to Bayern.
Barcelona has been the club long rumored to be interested in Lewandowski and they’ve apparently already reached an agreement on personal terms. Furthermore, the Catalans have also sent their first offer to the Bavarian side.
🚨🚨| Everything indicates that Bayern Munich will start talks with FC Barcelona once they sign Sadio Mane; the offer of €32+5M is still on the table & Lewandowski is now more optimistic.@RogerTorello [🎖️]
— Managing Barça (@ManagingBarca) May 28, 2022
While being steadfast that Lewandowski is in Bayern’s plans next season and that he will fulfill his contract, they have become more open to the idea of selling him should the right offer come in and only once they find a replacement.
The back and forth between the player and his current club continued as Oliver Kahn was asked about Lewandowski’s comments.
"“I can’t tell you why Robert chose this path. Public statements like that don’t get you anywhere … I think he should know what he has at Bayern.” The club’s former goalkeeper went on to say: “Appreciation is not a one-way street.”Source: The Guardian"
Lewandowski wants to join Barcelona and Barcelona would like to sign him as he is considered a priority and someone who could spearhead Xavi Hernandez’s project going forward. They’ve long needed a world-class striker and they believe Lewandowski can be that striker despite his age.
However, their financial situation is considered a significant hindrance. In order to afford such a signing, Barcelona either must sell a number of players or give a final agreement to a couple of deals on the table that, if given the go-ahead, would mean a much needed infusion of revenue.
Liverpool’s Sadio Mane has been linked with Bayern and should they sign him, it might push Lewandowski closer to Spain.
One of the things Lewandowski believes he still needs to achieve is winning the Ballon d’Or. A goal he thinks is much more achievable in LaLiga with Barcelona