Barcelona Presented With Two Star Strikers After Salah Pursuit Collapses

 

BARCELONA PRESENTED WITH TWO STAR OPTIONS TO REPLACE ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI AFTER MO SALAH TRANSFER DEEMED 'IMPOSSIBLE' DUE TO FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS

With their attempt to sign Mohamed Salah collapsing due to financial constraints, Barcelona have been presented with two high-profile striker options to eventually replace Robert Lewandowski, who turns 36 in August.

Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan)

Why? The 26-year-old Argentinian is in career-best form (27 goals this season) and fits Barça’s pressing style.

Cost: €90m (£77m) – but Inter may accept player swaps (e.g., Ansu Fati).

Lewandowski Plan: Could rotate with/learn from Lewy for 1-2 years before taking over.

 Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray)

Why? The Nigerian powerhouse (recently signed by Galatasaray) offers a physical, mobile presence up front.

Cost: Likely a loan or structured deal, as Galatasaray just secured him.

Issue: His wages and potential transfer fee may still be too steep for Barça’s finances.

Why Salah Was Ruled Out

Liverpool’s Demand: Wanted €150m+ for the 31-year-old.

Barça’s Financial Reality: Must comply with La Liga’s 1:1 spending rule before big signings.

Lewandowski’s Future

2024/25: Will remain the starter, but Barça want an heir now.

2025: Could move to MLS/Saudi if a successor emerges.

What’s Next?

Martínez the Favorite: More affordable and suits Xavi’s system.

Osimhen a Complicated Option: Given his recent move to Galatasaray, a deal seems unlikely unless a loan is negotiated.

Alternative Targets: Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig) or Artem Dovbyk (Girona) could be backup options.