As Barcelona continues to dominate headlines with their impressive performances this season, attention has turned to the club’s long-term strategy in securing a successor to Robert Lewandowski, their talismanic striker. At 36, Lewandowski has defied age with his exceptional form, but the Catalan club knows his time at the top is finite. Speculation has mounted over potential successors, with Viktor Gyokeres, the prolific Swedish forward, emerging as a key target.

However, the complexities of Lewandowski’s enduring importance, Barcelona’s financial constraints, and mounting interest in Gyokeres from European giants present a multifaceted challenge for Barca’s management.

The Polish veteran remains the centerpiece of Barcelona’s attack. His technical prowess, clinical finishing, and leadership have been instrumental in the team’s success under Hansi Flick. The Polish striker has continued to perform at a high level, leaving little doubt about his immediate value to the squad.

Speaking on the veteran’s contributions, Flick emphasized Lewandowski’s irreplaceable presence: “Football is unpredictable. He’s in great physical condition, but we have to take care of him. We need Robert, and he needs the team. A player does not win alone. The benefit is mutual”. Still, Flick’s remarks underline the reality that Lewandowski’s long-term availability cannot be taken for granted, necessitating a forward-looking approach.

Enter Viktor Gyokeres

Viktor Gyokeres, the 26-year-old Swedish striker currently plying his trade at Sporting CP, has emerged as one of Europe’s hottest properties. His incredible form this season, with 25 goals in 23 appearances, has drawn widespread attention from top clubs. Notably, he delivered a stunning hat-trick in Sporting’s 4-1 victory over Manchester City, solidifying his reputation as a player for the big stage.

However, Gyokeres’ current situation in Portugal has been far from ideal. Following the departure of head coach Ruben Amorim, Sporting has struggled, enduring a winless streak of four matches across domestic and European competitions. These difficulties, coupled with Gyokeres’ reported frustration after recent losses, have fueled speculation about his willingness to consider a move.

Barcelona’s interest and financial hurdles

Barcelona’s pursuit of Gyokeres aligns with their broader strategy to secure Lewandowski’s successor. Reports suggest the Catalan club is keen to acquire the Swedish forward next summer, with plans to loan him back to Sporting until Lewandowski’s contract expires. However, Gyokeres’ estimated market value of €70 million poses a significant challenge for the Catalans, given their ongoing financial constraints.

Adding complexity to the equation, Manchester United and Manchester City have both entered the race for Gyokeres. United’s appointment of Ruben Amorim, Gyokeres’ former coach, could be a decisive factor, while City’s Champions League pedigree and financial muscle make them formidable competitors.