Lewandowski hinders Barça's chances of going for Alexander Isak

FC Barcelona is keeping an eye on Alexander Isak as their possible '9' for the future. The Swedish international is having a spectacular season with Newcastle, a club with which he won his first official title last weekend (the English League Cup). However, two factors condition Barça's chances of entering the bidding for the 25-year-old forward this summer.

On one hand, there is the financial factor. The 'Magpies' have made it clear that they will not accept less than 180 million euros for their main figure, a price practically impossible to afford in the short term for the Blaugrana team. Deco and Joan Laporta expect to make a couple of signings in the upcoming market that could involve spending close to 100 'million'.

However, investing such a high amount in a single reinforcement does not fit into the financial plans of a Barcelona that also needs to finalize at least a couple of sales to generate cash and have the necessary salary margin to sign. The good news, amidst the limitations of 'Fair Play', is that the club can now sign under the 1:1 rule. 

Lewandowski, an obstacle for Isak on the way to Barça

On the other hand, there is another obstacle for Isak on his way to Barcelona. The presence of Robert Lewandowski undoubtedly conditions not only the arrival of the Swedish forward but also that of any other 'star' with a high salary. The Blaugrana '9' is already guaranteed to continue for one more season, according to the terms of the contract he signed in 2022.

'Lewy' was required to play at least 55% of the official matches of the season (playing a minimum of 45 minutes per game), something he has more than fulfilled in the 2024-25 season. The Pole has scored 35 goals and provided 3 assists in 40 matches (3,140 minutes), surpassing his scoring record with Barça, which was 33 goals in his debut season, 22-23.

Why does Lewandowski condition the possible arrival of Alexander Isak? Basically, because of the high amount of his salary. Robert will earn 26 million euros gross next season, 6 'million' less than he earned in 24-25, but enough to remain the highest-paid player in the squad. For Barça, amortizing a transfer and a contract as high as the one the Swede would demand is simply impossible in the short and medium term.