Overview
- Multiple reports say Barcelona have intensified summer planning to replace out-of-contract Robert Lewandowski, focusing on Julián Álvarez of Atlético Madrid and Dušan Vlahović of Juventus.
- President Joan Laporta is described as keen on Álvarez, with Atlético expected to demand well over €100 million and Arsenal named as a potential rival suitor.
- Sporting director Deco is evaluating Vlahović as a lower-cost option given his contract expires on June 30, with Tottenham, Chelsea and AC Milan also monitoring the striker.
- Vlahović is sidelined by an adductor/groin injury and is targeting a March return, and his current season output has been modest by his standards.
- Reporting indicates a one-year extension for Lewandowski is not ruled out but considered unlikely, with Barcelona seeking a pay cut and reduced role that the player is reluctant to accept amid interest from MLS and Saudi Arabia.