Robert Lewandowski set to leave Barcelona on free transfer
Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has decided to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of June, according to reports from Spain. The 37-year-old Poland international is understood to have rejected the club's offer of a renewal on reduced terms and will depart as a free agent, ending a three-year stay at Camp Nou. The news, reported by Spanish journalist Guillem Balague via the BBC, comes as Barcelona prepares for a significant squad overhaul under manager Hansi Flick.
Lewandowski's current deal runs out on June 30, and while Barcelona had presented him with a new contract, it involved a substantial salary cut and did not guarantee him a regular starting role. Faced with the prospect of reduced earnings and a backup position, Lewandowski has reportedly chosen to seek a new challenge where he can continue as a first-choice forward. The club is yet to make an official announcement, with sources suggesting they wish to avoid distractions as they pursue the La Liga title.
The veteran forward's departure marks the end of a prolific individual chapter at Barcelona, following his high-profile move from Bayern Munich in 2022. Lewandowski has scored 59 goals in 95 appearances for the Catalans, winning La Liga in his debut season. However, his advancing age and recent dip in consistent performance have led the club's hierarchy to plan for a future without him, prioritizing financial flexibility and squad regeneration.
From a sporting perspective, Lewandowski's exit accelerates Barcelona's need to secure a long-term successor at the center-forward position. The club has been linked with several younger strikers across Europe, and his departure frees up significant wage bill space that is crucial for registering new signings under La Liga's financial controls. For Lewandowski, the move allows him to extend his career at the highest level as a key player, rather than accepting a diminished role.
Serie A emerges as the most likely next destination, with Juventus and Inter Milan both credited with strong interest by the reports. A move to Italy would offer Lewandowski the chance to test himself in a third major European league and potentially secure a more lucrative final contract than Barcelona was willing to provide. His experience and proven goal-scoring record, despite his age, remain attractive qualities for clubs competing at the top level.
Lewandowski's impending departure is part of a broader exodus of senior figures expected at Barcelona this summer, with goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen also linked with a move. The changes signal a clear shift in strategy as the club looks to rebuild under Flick with a younger, more financially sustainable squad. Lewandowski's final games in a Barcelona shirt will now be viewed as a farewell, with the club's focus turning to identifying and securing his replacement for the 2026-27 campaign.
