Several factors are currently raising concerns at FC Barcelona. First and foremost is the enormous financial power of Saudi Arabian clubs, capable of luring both veteran and young players with massive contracts. In Robert Lewandowski’s case, one key detail adds weight: he only has one year left on his current contract with Barça.
A Saudi club could easily offer him a three- or four-year deal with an astronomical salary, according Mundo Deportivo. Given how well he takes care of his body, such a move wouldn’t be far-fetched. Just look at Cristiano Ronaldo—a player who similarly prioritizes his physical condition—who remains the face of Al Nassr at 40 years old. He recently extended his contract through 2027, earning €208 million annually, plus a €30 million signing bonus.
The Saudi league continues to grow in appeal. The most recent high-profile addition is another former Barça star: João Félix. At just 25, he couldn’t resist the financial rewards and rising level of competition in a league that’s improving day by day.
The list of top-tier players now competing there includes Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mané, Kalidou Koulibaly, Riyad Mahrez, Marcelo Brozović, Fabinho, Yannick Carrasco, Georginio Wijnaldum, Theo Hernández, Rúben Neves, Franck Kessié, Mateo Retegui, and Yassine Bounou, among others.
A transfer window disadvantage
Another challenge for Barcelona is the extended Saudi transfer window. While LaLiga’s market closes on September 1, Saudi clubs can continue signing players until September 23. This means that, even if Barça can no longer bring in new players, Saudi teams could still tempt their stars well into the month.
Head coach Hansi Flick counts on Lewandowski for the upcoming season, but logic dictates he’ll be used more selectively due to his age. The strong performance of Ferran Torres at center forward supports giving the Polish striker more rest. Additionally, Marcus Rashford and Dani Olmo—who played some matches as a false nine last season—are also available options up front.
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Comparison: Cristiano Ronaldo’s $244 million salary at Al Nassr vs. Joao Felix’s new contract
Barça’s willingness to let go—For the right price
Within this context, Barcelona is pleased with Lewandowski’s performance and commitment. However, if a jaw-dropping offer came in that guaranteed him more money and a longer deal than what he currently has, the club wouldn’t necessarily stand in his way.
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Cristiano Ronaldo could be joined by Club World Cup champion as Al Nassr builds a dream team
Lewandowski has been the model professional—disciplined, consistent, and productive. For all those reasons, Barça would understand his decision. But the club would expect a substantial transfer fee in return. After all, Saudi clubs have the funds not only to pay players handsomely but also to secure them from their current teams. Lewandowski remains an elite player with global marketability, and he cost the Catalans €45 million plus €5 million in variables.
