Barcelona Close in on Lewandowski Successor as Flick and Deco Agree on New Striker

In a bold and ambitious move that signals a new era for FC Barcelona, Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco have reportedly reached a pivotal agreement to secure a top-tier striker who will serve as a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. The aging Polish talisman, despite still delivering crucial goals, is now approaching the twilight of his career. The club’s leadership understands the urgency of reinforcing the attack with a younger, high-potential striker who can lead the line for years to come. After weeks of deliberation, scouting, and internal discussions, Barcelona has narrowed its options to a shortlist of five exciting forwards: Alexander Isak, Julián Álvarez, Marcus Rashford, Viktor Gyökeres, and Jonathan David — with the latter currently a free agent, making him an intriguing and financially viable option.

Hansi Flick, known for his fast-paced and structured attacking football, is said to have personally studied each candidate’s profile, focusing on their tactical fit, versatility, age, and market availability. Deco, who has been actively involved in all recruitment decisions since his appointment, has reportedly aligned closely with Flick’s vision. Their consensus represents a departure from previous transfer windows, where internal disagreements often derailed key deals. This time, Barcelona’s decision-makers are united in their mission.

Alexander Isak has emerged as a top candidate thanks to his exceptional season at Newcastle United. His technical finesse, fluid dribbling, and poise in front of goal make him a compelling option. Isak’s ability to drop deep, create space, and link up with midfielders aligns with Flick’s preference for mobile center-forwards. However, the Swedish international is not only a star in the Premier League but also a prized asset at Newcastle, meaning that any move would come at a steep cost — likely above €70 million — which could challenge Barça’s strict financial fair play constraints.

Julián Álvarez, the World Cup winner and Manchester City’s versatile striker, also presents an appealing profile. His relentless work rate, ability to play across the front line, and big-game experience are valuable assets. While Álvarez has occasionally struggled for consistent minutes under Pep Guardiola, City are unlikely to let him go easily unless the player pushes for a transfer. Barcelona views Álvarez as someone who could slot seamlessly into their system and offer immediate impact while also developing further under Flick’s coaching.

Marcus Rashford’s name brings both excitement and skepticism. On his day, the Manchester United forward is a devastating force with blistering pace and finishing ability. However, concerns over form inconsistency and a potentially high salary complicate matters. Despite this, sources suggest that Rashford’s camp has been quietly open to listening to offers amid unrest at United. Flick reportedly appreciates Rashford’s ability to play both centrally and wide, offering tactical flexibility that could be useful in a rebuilding Barça squad.

Viktor Gyökeres, meanwhile, represents a more traditional number nine — strong, direct, and physically dominant. His performances at Sporting CP have not gone unnoticed, with an impressive goal tally and growing presence on the European stage. Gyökeres would bring a powerful, no-nonsense edge to Barcelona’s front line, reminiscent of the classic target men of old. However, adapting to La Liga’s tactical complexity could be a challenge, and it remains to be seen if he fits Flick’s more fluid attacking philosophy.

Perhaps the most intriguing option is Jonathan David, who is currently a free agent after leaving Lille. His availability makes him a financially strategic option, especially given Barça’s tight budget. David’s goal-scoring record in Ligue 1 and his intelligence in movement make him a strong candidate. Moreover, at just 24, he fits the club’s desire to sign players entering their prime. Sources suggest Deco sees David as a smart acquisition — one that avoids a transfer fee while still offering top-level performance. Flick is reportedly impressed by David’s maturity, adaptability, and clinical finishing. Given his free-agent status, negotiations would center around personal terms and bonuses, rather than costly transfer negotiations.

The decision now lies in weighing sporting priorities against financial limitations. While Isak and Álvarez represent the most glamorous options with proven track records at elite clubs, they also come with high price tags. Rashford, though world-class on paper, remains a gamble due to recent dips in form. Gyökeres provides a stylistic alternative, and David, the most financially prudent option, ticks many boxes as a low-risk, high-upside signing.

Whatever the final decision, the agreement between Flick and Deco marks a turning point. It demonstrates a coherent strategy in squad building, a shared understanding of the club’s direction, and a proactive approach to succession planning. With Lewandowski’s eventual departure looming, Barcelona’s next striker could define the club’s fortunes for the next decade. Fans now await the official announcement — and all eyes are on which name will emerge as the next great leader of Barça’s attack.