Lewandowski emerges as Milan’s priority while Barcelona navigates rising uncertainty

Quiet negotiations and internal doubts fuel a market race centered on the veteran
RC Celta de Vigo v FC Barcelona - LaLiga EA Sports
RC Celta de Vigo v FC Barcelona - LaLiga EA Sports | Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/GettyImages

The buzz surrounding Robert Lewandowski has picked up again and is already influencing decisions at two of Europe’s most traditional clubs. The Polish forward, under contract with Barcelona until June 30, 2026, has become a real target for Milan, which is keeping a close eye on the possibility of signing him in the 2026 summer window. The first round of inquiries, made through people close to the player, didn’t meet any resistance, which only boosted the Italians’ confidence. At the same time, Barcelona is evaluating options for its attacking sector and directing its efforts toward Harry Kane if Lewandowski does decide to leave.

Why Milan sees Lewandowski as a key piece for its next cycle

Milan’s front office wants a forward capable of providing consistency, a high volume of goals and immediate impact. It’s a formula the club has used before with Ibrahimovic and Giroud, always with strong value for money. Lewandowski fits that profile perfectly. His age doesn’t weigh heavily on Milan’s plans, since the club values experience and reliability in a squad that mixes young prospects with established veterans.

The long-term plan also includes the development of Francesco Camarda, a standout academy talent who needs top-level references around him as he grows. Having Lewandowski as both a technical and mental benchmark is seen as a major bonus. Meanwhile, Santiago Giménez’s underwhelming form keeps Milan alert in the search for someone who can solve the team’s short-term needs up front.

Robert Lewandowski
RC Celta de Vigo v FC Barcelona - LaLiga EA Sports | Quality Sport Images/GettyImages

According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, the club has already opened deeper conversations, with sporting director Igli Tare speaking directly to the player’s representatives. Inside Milan, there’s additional support pushing this move forward. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, now part of the coaching staff, is reportedly committed to helping make the deal happen.

Barcelona works with parallel scenarios

At Barcelona, Lewandowski’s stance adds tension to the situation. The forward recently said he’s “in no rush to renew,” making it clear that he intends to assess his physical and mental condition at the end of the season. While understandable, the club knows decisions involving players of his stature rarely allow for long delays. Because of that, alternatives are already being examined.

The newspaper Sport reported that Harry Kane is the top priority for both the board and the coaching staff. His compatibility with Hansi Flick’s style and his recent form with Bayern support that choice. The numbers tell the story this season: 26 goals and four assists in 22 matches. Across his entire run with the German club, he has 108 goals in 113 games, a level of consistency that puts him among Europe’s best. For Barcelona, he would represent a replacement aligned with the level the attack demands.

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations