Reason why Barcelona have decided against signing most in-form forward this summer

Barcelona have made it clear that they are not pursuing Viktor Gyokeres, despite the Sporting CP striker being in top form. 

This is because, according to SPORT, the club believes there is no need to sign a new number 9 this summer. Instead, they are fully backing Robert Lewandowski to lead the line next season.

Sporting director Deco recently explained the club’s position, saying: “Gyokeres is a great striker who has done excellent things at Sporting, but right now we are not looking for that position. We have Lewandowski at number 9.” 

These were not just polite words, but they reflected the club’s plans. Barcelona are not seeking a pure centre-forward. 

Instead, they want a versatile attacker, ideally a left winger, who can give Raphinha more freedom and step in as a central option when needed.

Lewandowski to continue under Flick

At 36 years old, Lewandowski is showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, under Hansi Flick, the Polish striker has had his best season at Barcelona so far. 

With 42 goals in 52 games, he was more decisive than ever, even after missing a few weeks due to a muscle injury. His performance under Flick has breathed new life into his role at Barça.

This resurgence has also triggered the fourth year of his contract. By reaching 55% of games in his third season, Lewandowski secured the extension, which sees him earning €26 million gross until 2026. 

Unless both parties agree to an early extension, that will be the final year of his deal.

For now, Barcelona see no reason to shake things up in attack. The focus is on adding players like Luis Diaz or Marcus Rashford, versatile wide forwards rather than traditional number 9s. 

With Lewandowski still delivering and Flick backing him, Barcelona’s plans for the summer are clear: strengthen smartly, not unnecessarily.