Barcelona Eyes New Striker Amid Lewandowski’s Departure
As the clock ticks down on Robert Lewandowski’s contract with Barcelona, the club is gearing up for a significant shift in their attacking lineup. Expected to leave when his contract expires at the end of June, Lewandowski’s departure has set the stage for the pursuit of a new world-class striker. Barcelona’s ambitions are high, with names like Julian Alvarez and Harry Kane topping their wish list. However, the club’s financial constraints may force them to consider more budget-friendly options to compete alongside Ferran Torres.
Levante’s Etta-Eyong: A Proven Option in La Liga
One of the standout targets on Barcelona’s radar is Levante’s Karl Etta-Eyong. The 22-year-old forward has demonstrated his prowess in La Liga, making him a familiar and reliable option for the Catalan giants. Etta-Eyong’s performance and adaptability to the Spanish league have caught the attention of Barcelona’s scouting team, and the club is considering a move to secure his services for around €30m. While his recent form has been somewhat inconsistent, his potential and proven track record in La Liga make him an attractive prospect for the club.
Fisnik Asllani: The Rising Star in the Bundesliga
Another name that has piqued Barcelona’s interest is Fisnik Asllani. The 23-year-old Hoffenheim forward has been on the club’s radar for a couple of months, and his impressive performances in the Bundesliga have not gone unnoticed. Asllani has netted five goals and provided two assists this season, showcasing his versatility and potential. Bayern Munich is also eyeing the young talent, seeing him as a potential successor to Harry Kane in the future. The presence of a release clause in Asllani’s contract, valued between €25-29m, makes him an even more attractive acquisition for Barcelona.
The Competition Heats Up
The race to sign Asllani is heating up, with Barcelona and Bayern Munich both showing serious interest. Florian Plettenburg (via Sport) has confirmed that Barcelona is in the mix, and the club may have a clearer idea of their chances of landing the forward as early as March. The presence of a release clause simplifies the transfer process but adds to the competition. If Bayern Munich decides to make a move, it could complicate matters for Barcelona, forcing them to act swiftly and decisively.
Financial Constraints and Priorities
Barcelona’s financial situation remains a critical factor in their transfer planning. The club is also looking to sign a central defender to replace the already-departed Inigo Martinez, which adds another layer of complexity. Given these constraints, it is likely that Barcelona will focus on more affordable options like Etta-Eyong or Asllani. Both players fit within the club’s budget, and their performances suggest they could provide a solid return on investment.
Decision Time for Barcelona
With several options on the table, Barcelona has yet to make a final decision on who they will target next summer. However, it would be no surprise to see them lean towards Etta-Eyong, given his familiarity with La Liga and his proven track record. As the club navigates the complexities of the transfer market and their financial limitations, the decision will be crucial in shaping the future of their attacking lineup. The coming months will be pivotal as Barcelona seeks to secure the right talent to carry forward their legacy.
