Barcelona are ready to let Robert Lewandowski's contract expire next summer and allow him to leave without fee. This further increases the desire to keep Marcus Rashford of the Catalan club.
The Spanish giants are starting their efforts to defend the La Liga title and have had an impressive opening period of the season. However, the plan for next season has been shaped, and it seems that this has led to a shocking decision when they accepted to let the main striker leave.
Lewandowski joined Barcelona from Bayern Munich in a £42.5 million deal in the summer of 2022. The 37-year-old has played a key role in the team's recent success, scoring 105 goals in 156 appearances. However, the club's board will not suggest him signing a new contract.
Spanish media believes that Lewandowski is unlikely to maintain his pressing ability with the necessary intensity and is starting to decline, although the Polish player has scored 4 goals in just three starts in La Liga this season.
Lewandowski's salary is also a problem for the club, which has been facing financial difficulties and recent penalties. The striker remains among the highest-paid players, and sporting director Deco insists he will not consider negotiating an extension with Lewy at the start of the year.
The Blaugrana's sporting director said: "We will not discuss extending the contract in October. Everything is taking place step by step. Lewandowski has been one of the best forwards in recent years, a top-class player.
He has contributed a lot to the team, scored more than 40 goals, but we will analyze carefully. It is time to focus on bringing back injured players."
This situation means Rashford can make his dream of moving to Barcelona come true. The player who was left out by Man United is currently playing on loan in Spain. He has continuously proven his ability through each match, highlighted by an impressive double that helped Barca beat Newcastle in the Champions League.
While coach Ruben Amorim's continued commitment to Man United has been a controversial topic, Rashford seems to be being left on the sidelines. However, Barcelona's top stars have impressed the 27-year-old's fighting spirit and talent.
The Blaugrana could sign him for the end of the season by paying him an initial £25 million and a further £5 million in add-ons.
Rashford has joined coach Hansi Flick's attack, alongside Raphinha and Lamine Yamal - who have recently narrowly won the Ballon d'Or. Dani Olmo is also one of the other outstanding talents of the Spanish team.
