Chelsea considering the signing of Barcelona-linked striker to replace Lukaku

The economic levers activated in Thursday’s assembly provide Barcelona with breathing space in a critical transfer window. The financially crippled club now seemingly have a €200 million budget available for the coming summer.

With the economic doors opened, Joan Laporta aims to reinforce the side with at least three world-class signings. While the signing of Bernardo Silva is complicated, there is more optimism over the arrivals of Robert Lewandowski and Jules Kounde.

However, the Catalans are not the only club vying for the Polish striker’s signature. According to reports from ESPN FC, Chelsea are looking to sign Lewandowski as a replacement for Romelu Lukaku.

The Belgian international has had a disappointing spell in England and wishes to move back to Inter Milan. Yet, a deal seems far off since the Nerazzurri offered a mere €5 million loan fee in their opening bid.

Thomas Tuchel does not count on Lukaku for next season, and Lewandowski is seen as a perfect replacement as the central striker for Chelsea.

However, the Polish international’s preference has always been to sign for Barcelona and there seems to be no change of heart right now.

As it stands, Barcelona are preparing their second bid for the Bayern Munich forward. There is a verbal agreement in place between the two parties and rapid advancements are expected in the coming weeks.

Moreover, Bayern’s reported agreement with Sadio Mane in recent hours will play a big role in facilitating the Catalans’ operation.

In 34 Bundesliga starts last season, the 33-year-old scored 35 goals and provided three assists in the process. Across all competitions, he broke the 50-goal mark and was one of the most lethal strikers in all of Europe.