Transfers
Barcelona eyes bargain for Liverpool striker as Lewandowski exits
Barcelona are hunting a forward to replace Robert Lewandowski after his free transfer to Chicago Fire, and they have set their sights on Sweden international Alexander Isak, whose market value has fallen sharply following this troubled season at Liverpool.
Last season Liverpool, then Premier League defending champions, spent around £450 million on new signings. Among the headline arrivals were Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen, Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak from Newcastle, all intended to remodel the strike line.
The overhaul did not improve results; Liverpool fell from first to fifth place. Manager Arne Slot was dismissed after the campaign, with Wirtz and Isak cited as struggling to make an impact.
Atletico Madrid accuses Barcelona of illegal talks over Julian Alvarez
Isak arrived on a six‑year contract for a reported £125 million fee, the highest of the three signings. The Sweden international endured a nightmare debut season, suffering several injuries including a broken leg and scoring only four goals before the FIFA World Cup. During the World Cup Isak displayed a modest resurgence of form, prompting Barcelona to add him to their scouting list. Reports in Mundo Deportivo claim the Catalans have attended his matches in North America, sensing a chance for a bargain as his transfer value has diminished markedly over the past year. Barcelona’s forward vacancy was widened by Robert Lewandowski’s free move to Chicago Fire. While Julian Alvarez is reported as the club’s primary target to replace Lewandowski, the interest in Isak creates a potential alternative route. If Barcelona pursue Isak, they must negotiate a reduced fee with Liverpool and secure a work permit, while also balancing the pursuit of Alvarez. The outcome will shape the club’s attacking options for the upcoming season.