The future of Robert Lewandowski could be decided within days, as his contract expiry at FC Barcelona draws closer.
While the 37-year-old striker’s initial priority had been to stay with the Blaugrana, the lack of clarity from the club with regard to his new deal and role in the team has left him looking for opportunities elsewhere.
Italy has emerged as a strong possibility to be Lewandowski’s next destination, with AC Milan and Juventus, in particular, pushing to sign him.
As reported, Lewandowski’s agent, Pini Zahavi, was already in Italy in recent days to discuss a potential transfer.
Lewandowski’s demands
Now, according to La Stampa (h/t SPORT), Zahavi recently held a meeting with Juventus to hear their proposal.
During the discussions, he made clear Lewandowski’s willingness to sign, provided certain financial and sporting conditions are met.
Lewandowski is seeking a two-year contract worth €8 million net per season, plus bonuses. This represents a considerable financial commitment, even though the player would arrive as a free agent.
As per the report, there was a positive atmosphere during the talks despite Juventus considering the demands to be significant.
In Turin, there is a belief that Lewandowski could prioritise this move over remaining at Barcelona, as he would be an undisputed starter and secure a guaranteed two-year deal.
Headed to Turin? (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
Such terms are not being offered at Barcelona, where the club has proposed a one-year renewal with a substantial salary reduction to around €6 million net per season, plus performance-related bonuses.
His role in the team would also become secondary, as he is aware that the club plans to sign a new first-choice striker as part of its sporting project.
Final decision soon
Lewandowski has ruled out a move to Major League Soccer, where financial offers are less competitive.
However, in Poland, there remains speculation about a possible move to Saudi Arabia. The striker is said to have received two highly lucrative offers, which he is seriously considering despite ongoing security concerns related to the conflict in Iran.
In any case, Lewandowski is expected to listen to Barcelona’s final proposal, likely next week, before making a decisive choice about his future.
Both he and his family are comfortable in Barcelona, but they also feel that the current offer and projected role do not meet his expectations.
