Barcelona identify Chelsea star Joao Pedro and LaLiga striker as potential replacements for Robert Lewandowski: Reports

Barcelona have reportedly identified Chelsea star Joao Pedro and Atletico Madrid star Alexander Sorloth as potential replacements for Robert Lewandowski this summer. The Polish legend has been heavily linked to an exit at the end of this season.

After four seasons at Barcelona, Robert Lewandowski’s contract is set to end in June 2026. The Pole is reportedly headed to an exit, with multiple options on the table from Europe, Saudi Arabia, and the United States. With Lewandowski’s departure on the cards, the Catalans are keen on signing a new striker this summer. Ferran Torres has been Lewandowski’s replacement so far, but his performances have been inconsistent, with enough space for improvement.

According to journalist Matte Moretto (h/t Reshad Rahman), Barcelona have chosen two potential replacements for Robert Lewandowski – Chelsea star Joao Pedro and Atletico Madrid ace Alexander Sorloth. The Catalans were also linked to Julian Alvarez, but his signing appears to be expensive and unlikely for multiple factors.

Joao Pedro signed for the Blues in the summer of 2025, scoring 19 times in 46 games across competitions in his debut season. His contract runs until 2033, and it is unlikely that Chelsea will sell him, given his decent showing this season. Meanwhile, Alexander Sorloth has a contract with Atletico until June 2028, but isn’t a regular starter for the club. He’s found the net 19 times in 49 appearances across competitions, but started in only 25 of them.

However, either signing will depend on the respective players’ willingness to join La Blaugrana, the financial aspects of the deal, and the club’s intention to negotiate or hear offers. The Catalans will be able to make such decisions once departures are made and the economic situation is viable.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick weighs in on Robert Lewandowski’s future at the club

In the pre-match press conference ahead of Barcelona’s league fixture against Osasuna, Hansi Flick opened up on Robert Lewandowski’s future at the club. He said (via Barca Universal):

“We’ve spoken, but that’s something between the two of us. We’re focusing on the five remaining matches. Once we’re done, we’ll talk and see what happens.”

With only five LaLiga games left for the Catalans, the focus is on securing the league title as soon as possible. They are currently at the top of the table with 85 points from 33 games and eleven points ahead of second-placed Real Madrid. The upcoming Clasico on May 11 could be a potential title-deciding fixture.

However, if Barcelona wins against Osasuna and Real Madrid lose their game against Espanyol, the Catalans could be declared official champions before the fixture.