Chelsea steal Robert Lewandowski successor away from Barcelona | OneFootball

It is no secret that Barcelona are searching the market for a new number nine, as they prepare to part ways with Robert Lewandowski at the end of this season. The 37-year-old sees his contract expire in June, and at this stage, it is unlikely that he will be offered the chance to extend his stay in Catalonia.

During the recent summer transfer window, Barcelona had eyes on a number of possible Lewandowski successors – although they never moved for any, as their plan is for 2026. But these lack of efforts were costly, as the likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko and Hugo Ekitike – all of whom were on their radar – moved clubs, which means that they will almost certainly not be available when they enter the market.

And another target has now fallen by the wayside: Emanuel Emegha. It was reported on Friday that Chelsea have struck an agreement to sign the 22-year-old from Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, and according to Sport, he was a player that Barcelona sporting director Deco had touted as a possible Lewandowski replacement.

Image via Ligue 1

Emegha was in fine form for Strasbourg last season, as he registered 14 goals in all competitions. He was not on the move during the recent transfer window, but he will now join Chelsea from the 2026-27 campaign onwards.

Barcelona are considering signing no replacement

It is almost taken for granted that Lewandowski leaves next summer, but even if this is the case, there is a chance that Barcelona do not sign a striker. Due to the well-documented financial woes that have plagued the club in recent years, it is being considered that no one arrives, which would mean that Ferran Torres would be the starting striker.

This would be a very unpopular decision among Barcelona supporters, although Ferran has impressed at the start of this season. Nevertheless, it is essential that Lewandowski is replaced next summer, although there could be problems ahead.