Robert Lewandowski’s future is back at the center of discussions in Barcelona, and not by chance. At 37, with a contract running through June 2026, the Polish forward has firmly entered the radar of Major League Soccer, more specifically the Chicago Fire, who have already held positive talks with the player and are working toward a possible move in the European summer of 2026. The information was reported by Nizaar Kinsella of BBC Sport.
Lewandowski hasn’t closed any doors. Quite the opposite. According to the report, he’s open to a move to MLS, and his high salary wouldn’t be a real obstacle in negotiations. That alone changes the tone of the conversation. When a player of his stature doesn’t rule out a destination, the market starts to move around him. And in Barcelona’s case, it raises an important alert about planning, succession and timing.
MLS step firmly into the picture
Chicago Fire’s interest doesn’t appear to be generic. The club has placed Lewandowski on its Discovery List, an MLS mechanism that gives teams priority in negotiating for a player within the league. In practical terms, it means no other MLS club can move forward without first paying a fee to the Fire. It’s a strategic move and shows that the Chicago club sees more in the Polish striker than just immediate on-field impact. It’s also a bet on visibility, identity and brand growth.
The Fire reached the MLS playoffs this season for the first time since 2017 and are looking to take the next step. A name like Lewandowski raises the club’s profile, draws international attention and helps solidify a project that wants to be taken seriously. Not by chance, Inter Miami have also been mentioned as interested, but they’re unable to negotiate while the player remains protected by Chicago’s list.
Once again, MLS shows it doesn’t want to be merely the final stop for careers, but a competitive, organized market capable of challenging Europe and Saudi Arabia for high-profile names.
Barcelona watch, Lewandowski takes his time
On Barcelona’s side, the approach is one of observation. The club has already been monitoring other options for the position, including Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane. Lewandowski, meanwhile, is still delivering solid numbers. This season, he’s played 17 matches, scored eight goals and added one assist. Those aren’t the stats of a player in sudden decline, but they don’t hide his age or the need to think about the future of the attack.
The Polish striker has options. He can stay at Barça through the end of his contract, consider a move to Saudi Arabia or take on the MLS challenge. On top of that, there’s also interest from Milan. That only broadens the picture and shows that Lewandowski still attracts attention across different markets. Nothing has been signed, nothing has been decided. But when MLS, Saudi Arabia and European clubs all appear on the same horizon, it’s a sign the clock has started ticking louder.