Robert Lewandowski keen on continuing at Barcelona, open to a secondary role next season | OneFootball

Robert Lewandowski is reportedly keen on staying at Barcelona beyond next summer despite the mounting exit speculations (h/t Diario Sport).

The 37-year-old has entered the crossroads of his career. His contract expires at the end of the season, and previous reports have suggested that Barca are reluctant to extend his deal.

While Saudi Pro League clubs continue to circle him, Lewandowski prioritises continuing with the Catalan giants as he feels he can still contribute at the highest level.

The Polish international and his family feel at home at Barca, another reason why he doesn’t want to move to Saudi Arabia despite lucrative contract proposals.

He is contemplating retirement if he leaves the Catalan giants. The chances of playing for another European team depend on the club’s competitive project.

Lewandowski, for his part, is willing to settle for a reduced role to continue at Barca next season, especially if Hansi Flick’s side sign a new striker.

The Polish star’s fitness troubles initially sparked huge doubts over his form this season, but he has proven that he is timeless with his top-class performances. 

He has netted seven goals in nine La Liga games, including a sublime hat-trick in the 4-2 win against Celta Vigo over the weekend.

Lewandowski has time and again shown his predatory scoring instincts, and he will be crucial for Barca’s quest for titles in the second half of the season.

But the catch is the former Bayern Munich star’s salary figures. Barca can truncate a chunk of their wage bill by getting rid of the veteran striker while allowing them to bring in his long-term successor.

With Ferran Torres also in the ranks, it is looking highly unlikely the Catalan giants will keep Lewandowski unless he convinces otherwise with his performances on the pitch for the remainder of the season.

To put it simply, Lewandowski’s form and fitness levels will decide his future at Barca.

The Catalan giants are actively scouring the market for the Polish star’s heir to the throne.

Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez, Levante’s Karl Etta Eyong and Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic are among the potential targets.