Barcelona superstar never considered Saudi Arabia move despite repeated approaches – Romano

The recently concluded summer transfer window saw Barcelona part ways with several players, which helped them reduce their wage bill by €161 million.

Ousmane Dembele to PSG was perhaps the most high-profile departure from Xavi’s squad while academy wonderkid Ansu Fati also secured a loan exit to Brighton & Hove Albion.

There could have been another major exit from Barcelona in the summer transfer window, if Saudi Arabia had gotten their wish.

Robert Lewandowski refused Saudi Arabia

Indeed, Fabrizio Romano (h/t SPORT) is reporting that clubs from the Middle Eastern nation made several attempts to sign Barcelona superstar Robert Lewandowski in the summer.

As per the update, Saudi Arabia made several approaches to the 35-year-old’s entourage over the past few months.

Reports even suggested that Barcelona were offered a lucrative €40 million for the striker. However, the answer from the superstar striker was always a resounding “NO”.

Lewandowski arrived at Barça last year, bringing an end to a long chapter in the Bundesliga and starting off on a new journey and a new challenge in his career.

And, the Poland captain feels settled within the team and the city, giving him no reason to consider the thought of a departure.

Lewandowski a key part of Xavi’s setup

It goes without saying that Lewandowski is a key part of Xavi’s setup, not only on the field but off of it as well.

The 35-year-old won the Pichichi Trophy in his debut campaign, helping Barcelona win the La Liga title, and even though there were questions about his form early this season he continues to be an essential element in the manager’s scheme.