Barcelona transfer news: Latest on Robert Lewandowski replacement as 'three elite names' on list for next summer

Barcelona have reportedly identified Erling Haaland, Julian Alvarez and Alexander Isak as possible replacements for Robert Lewandowski.

The Catalan giants have successfully signed Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford on loan, and he will significantly strengthen their squad ahead of their push to retain their La Liga crown.

It is not surprising that Barca have looked to bring in forward players considering they were arguably overly reliant on trio Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Lewandowski in 2024-25.

The latter is set to lead the line next season, but given he will be 37 in August, it would not be surprising if his performance levels dipped in the near future.

Fichajes report that Barca have anticipated his potential decline and have compiled a list of replacements featuring Manchester City's Halaand, Atletico Madrid's Alvarez and Newcastle United's Isak, with one of them likely to be targeted in the summer of 2026.

Stats assessed: Haaland, Alvarez or Isak compared

In terms of league goals, Isak comes out on top when compared to the other two strikers on Barca's shortlist, with his tally of 23 goals last season more than Haaland (22) and Alvarez (17).

The Newcastle man provided the most league assists of the trio - six compared to Alvarez's four and Haaland's three - and his figure of 0.95 goals and assists per 90 was also the best.

Haaland is rarely involved in play outside of the box, with the Norwegian attempting just 381 passes, the fewest of any City star to have played at least 1,350 minutes in 2024-25.

On the other hand, Isak attempted 689 passes, though his involvement in buildup pales in comparison to Alvarez, who attempted 966 passes last term in La Liga.

Who makes the most sense as a replacement for Lewandowski?

Despite being 36 last season, Lewandowski still enjoyed an exceptional campaign in front of goal, finding the back of the net 42 times for his side in all competitions.

The Polish forward was not able to press as intensely as he did when he was younger, but he was still able to act as a focal point for Barca's creative players.

Haaland is arguably the best striker in the world in the penalty area, though it remains to be seen if he could develop his all-round skillset to help get the best out of the likes of Yamal.

Isak is better than Haaland with the ball at his feet, and he is also more of a threat in the box than Alvarez, so perhaps the Newcastle attacker would be the most suitable addition of trio.

Written by
Lewis Nolan