LAFC and LA Galaxy, alongside AC Milan and Saudi clubs, eye world-class striker

[OSEN=Woo Choong-won Reporter] Robert Lewandowski's eventual departure from Barcelona has become highly likely. Overseas media outlets well-versed in transfer market trends predict that both parties will part ways at the end of this season, with Barcelona already beginning to seek a new striker to succeed him.

Tribuna, citing a report from The Athletic on the 3rd, Korean time, reported that Lewandowski is not expected to renew his contract after it expires this summer. Barcelona is reportedly reviewing the acquisition of a next-generation striker as part of its long-term offensive lineoverhaul. While no official announcement has been made, the local atmosphere leans heavily toward an impending farewell.

Lewandowski joined Barcelona in 2022 after leaving Bayern Munich and has consistently delivered decisive performances. In 163 matches, he recorded 109 goals and 21 assists, shouldering the responsibility for Barcelona's scoring. Despite his age, his sustained level of performance in La Liga has been highly praised.

However, the situation has gradually shifted this season. While Lewandowski maintains a solid record of 8 goals in 12 matches this season, frequent muscle injuries and slower recovery times have drawn criticism. His advancing age into his late 30s, continued playing burden, and high salary have negatively impacted renegotiation talks.

Rumors of an early winter transfer exit were dismissed as false. European transfer market expert Florian Plattenberg clarified that Lewandowski has no plans to leave the team in January and that summer retirement speculation is baseless. He stated that Lewandowski, whose contract is nearing expiration, is keeping both options -- staying at Barcelona or transferring -- open.

Attention now turns to his next destination. Bavarian Football Works, a source close to his former club Bayern Munich, reported that AC Milan has expressed interest in signing Lewandowski, and Saudi Arabian clubs are also making moves. However, the most notable possibility remains the American MLS. Los Angeles has consistently been mentioned as his potential final destination.

In fact, the MLS office featured Lewandowski's remarks on its official website in 2021. At the time, with his Munich contract nearing expiration, he named Los Angeles as his favorite U.S. city and avoided giving a clear answer about joining MLS while leaving a positive impression. A year later, he transferred to Barcelona.

Currently, LAFC and LA Galaxy are cited as potential destinations in MLS. Considering LAFC's attack lineup, which includes Son Heung-min, and LA Galaxy's aggressive investment strategy, Lewandowski's options remain wide open. As Barcelona fans prepare to close a chapter, all eyes are on where the world-class striker will take his next step. / 10bird@osen.co.kr

Lewandowski Set to Exit Barcelona, Eyes MLS Move