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Robert Lewandowski has confirmed he will play for Barcelona in the 2025/26 season. However, Saudi clubs are quietly laying the groundwork for a strategic move targeting the Polish striker in the summer of 2026.
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Barcelona’s experienced striker Robert Lewandowski has given a clear response to the recent transfer rumours that dominated headlines in recent weeks. The 36-year-old star confirmed he will remain at the club and stated his focus is firmly set on the upcoming season. However, this statement has not derailed the long-term strategies of certain major clubs. In particular, Saudi Pro League sides are said to be devising an extensive plan for the Polish forward, aiming for a move in summer 2026.
According to Mundo Deportivo, some Saudi clubs are planning to wait for Lewandowski’s contract at Barcelona to run out in order to gain an early edge in the competition. This includes laying the groundwork through unofficial talks with his representatives and closely monitoring his performances on the pitch. The goal is to build a strong project capable of convincing Lewandowski once he becomes a free agent in the summer of 2026.
In addition to his current deal, which expires in the summer of 2026, Barcelona also hold an option to extend his contract through 2027, at the club’s discretion. However, no official decision has yet been made regarding this clause. Saudi clubs are also viewing this uncertainty as an opportunity to act.
Speaking to BILD, Lewandowski directly responded to questions about a potential departure:
“I’ve won over 30 trophies in my career, but I still want more. That’s not a problem for me. I’ll be at Barcelona next season. Right now, my mind is only on this club. I believe our team will be better.”
These words align with the expectations of both the club board and the coaching staff. Lewandowski is more than just a goal scorer; he’s also a mentor to younger players and a model of discipline in training. His influence has been particularly emphasised in the development of talents like Lamine Yamal and Fermín López.
In the past season, the Polish forward played 52 official matches and spent a total of 3,929 minutes on the pitch. He scored 42 goals and provided 3 assists, contributing directly to 45 goals. Averaging a goal every 94 minutes, Lewandowski delivered outstanding efficiency for a 36-year-old striker. His continued presence among Europe’s elite strikers highlights his exceptional physical and mental conditioning.
Lewandowski’s impact at Barcelona is not limited to scoring. His leadership within the squad, tactical vision, and ability to guide younger teammates are highly valued by the club. The coaching staff consider him a key influence, especially in decisive match moments and with his consistent training intensity, which plays a crucial role in player development.
Lewandowski becoming a free agent in the summer of 2026 can be seen as the next step in Saudi Arabia’s transfer strategy. Considering his physical condition, global marketability, and on-field productivity, the interest shown by Saudi clubs may not be purely sporting — it may also signal a long-term commercial ambition. Following the high-profile acquisitions of Ronaldo, Benzema, and Neymar, securing a still-elite performer like Lewandowski could deliver major prestige and commercial impact.
As Lewandowski enters his third season at Barcelona, he continues to pursue high-level goals. Having previously won numerous trophies with Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich in Germany, the striker now wants to leave a lasting mark in Spain. The 2025/26 season could represent not just a campaign of goals, but a crucial step toward becoming a club legend.
Lewandowski continues to play an important role in Barcelona’s evolving tactical setup. While Saudi interest remains in the background for now, timing in football is often the most decisive factor of all.