Barcelona’s director, Deco, has confirmed that the club is interested in signing Manchester City’s star striker, Erling Haaland, with the Norwegian forward seen as a potential long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.
Haaland has been in sensational form since his move to City from Borussia Dortmund, scoring an impressive 105 goals in 114 appearances across all competitions. His remarkable performances have naturally drawn attention, and Barcelona president Joan Laporta is reportedly leading efforts to bring the striker to the Camp Nou as part of his ambitious plans before his presidential term ends in 2026.
Rumors suggest Haaland is considering a move away from Manchester City, possibly because manager Pep Guardiola’s contract is nearing expiration, which has piqued Barcelona’s interest in the player’s phenomenal output. Haaland’s contract includes a release clause of £175 million, which decreases each year, though City is keen to negotiate a new deal to secure his future at the Etihad.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Deco acknowledged that Haaland could be an ideal successor to Lewandowski, who has been in exceptional form since joining Barcelona from Bayern Munich in 2023. Deco said, “It’s very difficult to find a striker like Robert today. There are one or two of this level. Maybe Haaland or someone else. There are not so many of this level available.”
However, Deco also emphasized that the club is not rushing to find a replacement for Lewandowski. “We’re not going to be obsessed with looking for any strikers now because we’re going to focus first on what Robert can do,” Deco added. “I surely think he’s happy to be here. He’s a winner, and if we have an important season, I think he’ll want to continue.”
Lewandowski has made an immediate impact at Barcelona, scoring 78 goals in just over two seasons. With less than a year remaining on his contract, Barcelona plans to extend his deal for at least one more year.
Despite acknowledging Haaland as a potential future target, Deco emphasized that Barcelona’s primary focus remains on the present and ensuring a strong season. “It’s not a priority because we have to focus on this season,” Deco explained. “Of course, we have to do the work for the future, but if we focus too much on the future, we forget about the present. What happens this season can condition the future.”
Deco also praised Lewandowski’s professionalism and contributions to the team, saying, “For me, he is one of the best professionals I have seen in my life. It is not by chance that he is where he is and has scored all the goals he has, or that at 36 years old, he is performing at such a high level.”
While Barcelona clearly shows interest in Haaland, the club focuses on maximizing Lewandowski’s talents in the present while also preparing for future opportunities.
