Saudi offer threatens Barcelona

Veteran Polish star Robert Lewandowski, the striker for Spanish club Barcelona, is attracting significant interest from several Saudi Roshen League clubs, who are seeking to sign him during the current summer transfer window, despite his 36th birthday. According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, several Saudi clubs have contacted Lewandowski's entourage to inquire about his willingness to leave Barcelona this summer, especially since his contract expires at the end of next season. However, reports indicate that the player has no plans to leave, as he is living a stable and happy life with his family in Catalonia. The newspaper added that Lewandowski, who scored 42 goals last season despite missing the latter stages due to injury, remains a key player in German coach Hansi Flick's plans, who is counting on him for next season. However, there are indications that his role may gradually diminish, especially with the emergence of players such as Ferran Torres, Marcus Rashford, and Dani Olmo in the attacking position. The newspaper reported that Barcelona's management is concerned about the significant financial power of Saudi clubs, which may offer Lewandowski a three- or four-year contract with a hefty salary that would be difficult to refuse, especially given that his current contract only has one year left. She also pointed out that the successful experience of Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, who renewed his contract with Saudi club Al-Nassr until 2027 for €208 million annually, in addition to a €30 million signing-on bonus, could be an attractive factor for any star, regardless of their commitment to the sporting project. The newspaper explained that what further complicates the situation for Barcelona is that the transfer market in Saudi Arabia will remain open until September 23, after the Spanish transfer window closes. This means that the Catalan club could lose one of its stars without being able to replace him with a new player, unless the player is not under contract.