Barcelona is contemplating a contract extension for Robert Lewandowski, aiming to keep him at Camp Nou for at least another season, albeit with a pay cut, as reported by ESPN sources.
The Poland captain is set to become a free agent this summer, leaving his future at Barça in doubt.
According to ESPN, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick appreciates Lewandowski’s attitude and performance, prompting the club to explore various options for retaining him at least until June 2027.
This summer, Barcelona’s priority is to acquire a striker who can rival Ferran Torres.
Last month, ESPN reported that Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez is a top target for Barça president Joan Laporta, though the club is also considering other options like Dusan Vlahovic, who is set to depart Juventus in June.
Barcelona is eager for Lewandowski, who will turn 38 in August, to continue in a secondary role if he agrees to a salary reduction.
A source revealed that while Barcelona has not yet initiated negotiations with Lewandowski, sporting director Deco and Flick plan to meet with the player soon to discuss his future, given the club’s belief in his ongoing significance in the locker room.
Since his arrival at Camp Nou in 2022 from Bayern Munich, Lewandowski has remained one of the highest-paid players at the club.
Reducing Lewandowski’s wages would help Barça create financial flexibility to pursue new signings this summer.
The club aims to bolster its defense with a new center-back while also having to make a decision on the potential purchase of Marcus Rashford, who has been on loan from Manchester United.
Lewandowski has accumulated 116 goals in 186 matches for Barcelona and is reportedly attracting interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League and MLS.
This story was contributed to by ESPN’s Moisés Llorens.