Barcelona are actively planning for the future of their attack, with Robert Lewandowski’s contract set to expire in 2026. While the Polish international remains a key figure for now, the club is determined to secure a long-term replacement well in advance.
The search has already been affected by this summer’s transfer market. Several priority names have been ruled out, as Benjamin Sesko sealed a move to Manchester United and Viktor Gyokeres signed with Arsenal. Alexander Isak, another option long admired, could also be eliminated from consideration if his rumored switch to Liverpool materializes.
Julian Alvarez continues to be on the radar, but his transfer fee is expected to be too high for Barcelona, given their current financial restrictions. As a result, the club is broadening its scope, considering alternatives that can provide quality at a lower cost.
Vlahovic enters Barcelona’s plans
One of those alternatives is Dusan Vlahovic. As reported by Sempre Barca, the Catalan giants have already opened discussions with the Serbian forward’s entourage, setting the stage for possible negotiations next summer.
Vlahovic is under contract with Juventus until 2026, but if he does not agree to an extension before June 30, 2026, he would be free to leave on a Bosman transfer. Barcelona have taken advantage of similar free-agent opportunities in recent years and see this situation as another potential opening.
The striker’s career at Juventus has been inconsistent since his high-profile move from Fiorentina in 2022. Despite flashes of quality, he has struggled to meet expectations, and Juventus reportedly have no long-term plans to retain him once his contract ends. At 25 years old, however, Vlahovic is still considered to have his peak years ahead of him, making him an appealing option for Barcelona.
Balancing ambitions and priorities
Barcelona’s ideal scenario might still involve bringing in a player such as Alvarez or Isak, provided the latter does not depart Newcastle. However, financial limitations mean the club cannot realistically spend heavily on more than one major signing next summer.
A top-class central defender is also on the list of priorities, forcing sporting directors to weigh their choices carefully. This balancing act could ultimately make Vlahovic a more practical target compared to costlier alternatives.
The coming months will be crucial, both in terms of Vlahovic’s situation at Juventus and Barcelona’s broader transfer strategy. For now, the Catalans are positioning themselves as serious contenders to land the Serbian striker, keeping the door open as they prepare for life after Lewandowski.
