At FC Barcelona, despite Robert Lewandowski showing a spectacular level of form this 2024/25 season, scoring nine goals and providing two assists in 10 matches, it is clear that the club cannot rest on its laurels when it comes to finding a reliable replacement for him. Why? Well, the Warsaw 'killer' is under contract with the institution until the year 2026 and, currently at 36 years old, it is logical to start looking for a successor due to generational reasons. It has been mentioned more than once that they will seek a top-tier name in the international market as his successor.
In this regard, the player who seems to generate the most enthusiasm in the Barcelona sports management is the 24-year-old Norwegian forward playing for Manchester City, Erling Haaland. However, this transfer, while not entirely ruled out, seems economically very challenging to undertake, as the 'cyborg' has a market value of approximately €200 million, according to Transfermarkt, and is under contract with his current team until 2027. Given that he is the unequivocal focal point in the offensive front of the 'citizens,' it is not unlikely that his departure, at least through negotiations, will not be simple.
In light of this, it would not be surprising if the sporting management of the Catalan team begins to consider other alternatives of similar sporting performance but more affordable for the club. With this in mind, as reported by 'El Nacional.cat,' Barcelona could have an option as a 'Plan B' in case the transfer of Erling Haaland does not materialize.
The high-level 'Plan B' FC Barcelona would have on its agenda to strengthen the forward line
This alternative is forward Benjamin Sesko, a 21-year-old striker who is currently standing out as one of the top '9s' in European football. This season, he has scored six goals and provided three assists in eight matches, with a goal average of 0.75 goals per game, showcasing great potential.
Now, apparently, Benjamin Sesko is liked by Hansi Flick for having a profile that can not only be a reference as a center forward but also be dynamic and associate with his teammates, being a technically and physically imposing player. Barcelona could consider his transfer, as based on his current market value, around €50 million, it would be a valuable and manageable investment in terms of salary. Currently, according to 'Capology' metrics, the Slovenian earns around €5.6 million gross per season, an amount that could vary upon joining the Blaugrana team, but probably not significantly.