Barça's chances of signing a forward: Haaland, Salah or Lewandowski?
The club are desperate to add a star name to their attack this summer
There's calm and stability at Barcelona. At least on the pitch. The 4-0 Clasico win before the international break has allowed the club to keep working on their objectives for next season. And while a lot of the work has been done in defence, there is less certainty in attack. It's known that Erling Haaland is the priority, but his signing is complicated. Salah and Lewandowski are the alternatives.
SPORT break down Barça options...
Erling Haaland (30%)
Barça will not throw in the towel but accept they are not favourites. There cannot be confusion about the fact that Barça have made the striker their top target and the chances of signing him. Expected revenue means Barça believe they can pay the 75 million euros fee and his wages within their spending cap, but the commission, up to 100 million euros for the agent and father, is a problem.
Barça are keeping a low profile now and want to convince Haaland with their sporting project. On the financial side of the deal, they hope to renegotiate the commission. Xavi is clear that Haaland is his No.1 option.
Mo Salah (60%)
The Egpyt forward, 30 in June, is a more versatile player. Like Ansu and Ferran, he can play wide or as a false nine. And Aubameyang's performances mean a box player ins not necessarily as essential as it was. Salah's contract talks with Liverpool are not progressing. His deal runs until 2023. Salah would like a new adventure away from the Premier League.
Robert Lewandowski (10%)
The Polish striker would immediately bring goals to the attack. His career and experience speak for themselves. Lewa is one of the best goalscorers in the game. He has a contract with Bayern until 2023, so a fee would have to be negotiated, as is also the case with Liverpool. However, Barça would presumably not give him such a long-term deal at 34, so the fee would have to be amortised over a shorter length of time, which could be a problem. His agent, Pini Zahavi, has a good relationship with Joan Laporta the Barça president.
