Barcelona at breaking point over Lewandowski and Rashford decisions | OneFootball

Barcelona are heading into a defining phase of their summer planning, with two major attacking decisions staring right in their face. 

The situations involving Robert Lewandowski and Marcus Rashford are now at the centre of internal discussions and neither case is straightforward.

Just a few months ago, the expectation within the club was to maintain continuity and keep both players as part of the attacking unit. 

However, the story has shifted significantly since January, forcing the hierarchy to rethink their strategy.

Lewandowski’s case

Lewandowski’s case is the more delicate of the two, as Barcelona have already placed a renewal offer on the table. It is a one-year extension, but on significantly reduced terms. 

The proposal includes a fixed salary at roughly half of his current earnings, supplemented by performance-based bonuses.

As a result, the final decision now rests entirely with the Polish striker. 

Barcelona have big decisions to make. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

If he accepts, he is expected to transition into a secondary role within the squad and if he declines, Barcelona will free up substantial salary space, giving them greater flexibility in the transfer market.

What about Rashford?

Rashford’s situation, meanwhile, is more financially complicated. 

The forward, currently on loan from Manchester United, has a €30 million buy clause, a figure Barcelona are unwilling to meet under current conditions.

The bigger obstacle, however, lies in his wages, as Rashford’s contract runs until 2028, with earnings reportedly around €18 million net per year. 

Even with the player showing willingness to adjust, including deferring wages or restructuring his deal, Barcelona remain unconvinced.

From the club’s perspective, the total cost does not justify the investment, especially for a player who has not secured a guaranteed starting role. 

As a result, the growing belief is that Rashford will only stay if a significantly cheaper formula can be agreed, either through a renewed loan or drastically reduced financial terms.