Chicago Fire manager Gregg Berhalter has confirmed his club is in active negotiations with Robert Lewandowski following the forward’s departure from Barcelona. The Polish international will be a free agent when his contract with the Catalan club expires, and Chicago are publicly expressing their desire to secure his signature.
Barcelona recently offered Lewandowski a new contract, but it reportedly included a reduced role and lower wages than his current deal, leading to his decision to seek opportunities elsewhere. Clubs in Italy and Saudi Arabia have also been linked with a move for the 35-year-old, but Chicago Fire appear to be leading the chase at this stage.
Berhalter addressed the potential transfer during a recent interview with Przegląd Sportowy Onet (via Sport), stating, “First of all, I don’t believe there aren’t other offers. I find it hard to believe it, and I’m sure a player of his calibre should have offers.” He further emphasized the club’s commitment, saying, “We have had a lot [of communication] – both with him and with his entourage.”
He continued, “I can speak frankly because he is no longer a Barcelona player, or he will not be next week. He is someone we want to sign. We believe that both the Polish community and the entire Chicago community support this transfer.” Berhalter highlighted the potential impact Lewandowski could have, stating he would be “a fantastic signing for the club, the city and the league,” and would “only strengthen our team and its potential.”
Lewandowski enjoyed a productive, though ultimately trophyless, spell at Barcelona after joining from Bayern Munich in 2022. He scored 19 goals in 34 La Liga appearances last season, but his departure signals a significant shift in Barcelona’s attacking options as they search for a long-term replacement. The fact Poland failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup gives Lewandowski more time to consider his options without the pressure of immediate international commitments.
Chicago Fire’s pursuit of Lewandowski underscores the growing ambition within Major League Soccer to attract established global stars. Securing a player of his profile would undoubtedly elevate the league’s profile and provide a significant boost to the club’s fanbase and on-field performance.
