Barcelona will push to sign a ‘top striker’ in June; three players they should target

Barcelona’s transfer market palette has finally grown beyond Erling Haaland and free agents as links with Leeds United’s Raphinha have caught fire. The talented winger could be available for as little as €25 million if the Lilywhites are relegated.

Despite those rumours, though, Barcelona will prioritise the signing of a ‘top’ striker, as per reports from AS. In the past, they have been linked with several names, with Erling Haaland sitting on top of that list.

However, the club clearly does not have the budget to sign the Borussia Dortmund striker. It would not be farfetched to assume their needle is stuck at someone who would cost €50 million or less.

As such, we at Barça Universal take the prerogative to glance at three realistic strikers they should target.

1. Robert Lewandowski

When Robert Lewandowski is on the market, every transfer target list should start and stop with his name. With over 100 league goals in the last three league seasons, there is not a striker capable of tying the Pole’s shoes.

His contract negotiations with Bayern Munich have taken a huge hit, and consequently could be available in the summer transfer window. With one season left on his contract, and at 33, one would expect his price tag to be around €50-55 million.

2. Alexander Isak

Quite contrary to Lewandowski, Real Sociedad’s Alexander Isak can be a long-term target for Barcelona should they choose to pursue him. Still only 22, the Swedish striker has shown over the last two seasons that he can sit on the big boys’ table.

He scored 17 goals in 34 appearances for La Real last season, and was incredible for Sweden during the European Championship. While his output has taken a hit this season (four goals, two assists), Isak could be one to keep an eye on.

Reports in the past have suggested that Isak’s release clause is marked at €75 million, but even the club would understand that, that is well over his actual market value. One can expect him to move for €50 million, if the right offer arrives.

3. Kelechi Ihenacho

The out of the box option, Kelechi Iheanacho, would, in fact, be a spectacular fit for Barcelona. He boasts of world-class associative play as a striker, and has an eye for a pass. Not to mention that he is left-footed, which immediately helps him stand out.

The Nigerian is still 25 and has been in and out of the Leicester City starting XI for too long to consider a long-term future there. With his contract expiring in 2024, it would not be shocking to see him leave the club this summer. One can only hope Barcelona considers a transfer.

As per the price, Ihenacho would cost considerably less than the aforementioned two, given he does not have a starting spot in his team. Realistically, an offer between €30-35 million could force Leicester to sell him.