In recent weeks, Barcelona‘s interest in acquiring Manchester City’s star forward Erling Haaland has notably diminished. While Haaland’s potential transfer to the Spanish giants was heavily rumored, one central reason for this shift lies in the impressive form and enduring commitment of Barcelona’s own star forward, who has been the club’s goal-scoring anchor. With the club’s board aiming for a marquee signing to close out Joan Laporta’s term as president, Haaland had become a favored target, but their current forward’s continued success has allowed the club to ease back on this pursuit for now.

Barca initially saw Erling Haaland as a “dream signing” capable of shaping the team’s long-term future. Since joining Manchester City in 2022, Haaland has established himself as one of the world’s premier forwards, scoring an astonishing 101 goals in just 108 matches across all competitions and making him the standout striker of the Premier League. However, his contract at Manchester City runs until 2027, and with interest from Real Madrid also reportedly growing, securing Haaland would come at a high financial cost. Barcelona’s well-known financial limitations made the potential acquisition challenging.

Despite these obstacles, Barcelona held firm to its vision. A potential Haaland transfer would align with Joan Laporta’s intention to make a substantial “media signing” before the end of his term. However, as Sport has reported, the club has now cooled their interest, citing their Robert Lewandowski’s stellar form as a primary factor.

Barcelona to award Lewandowski for stellar season

Barcelona’s current main forward has enjoyed a remarkable start to the 2024-25 season, tallying 19 goals in 16 games across all competitions and proving his relevance despite nearing the final phase of his career at age 36. Lewandowski’s success this season has reaffirmed his value to the club, and he remains Barcelona’s top scorer. A recent Sport report underscores the renewed sense of “tranquility” around the striker’s position, especially as the player has signaled his intent to activate an optional year of his contract and even consider a pay cut to remain in Catalonia.

The striker’s consistency has prompted the club to feel confident in their current roster’s capacity and ease the urgency of seeking a replacement. Additionally, under coach Hansi Flick, who succeeded Xavi, Barcelona’s main striker has been able to thrive in an offensive setup that complements his strengths. The dynamic between the player and the German manager has been described as highly effective, a synergy missing during the player’s last year with Xavi, where some tension arose over doubts about his place in the starting lineup. Now, under Flick’s guidance, he has returned to his best form, reestablishing himself as the club’s offensive linchpin.

Haaland deal on hold, future plans take shape

With a reliable superstar forward leading the Blaugrana’s attack, the club has decided to delay plans for signing an expensive marquee replacement, such as Haaland. Instead, the board is exploring options for signing a backup forward, focusing on candidates who could provide depth without the need for immediate stardom. One name currently on their radar is Jonathan David, whose potential free-agent status could make him a feasible addition.

This approach benefits Barcelona financially and allows the club to defer any hasty or costly moves in the transfer market. By preserving their resources, Barcelona can avoid the financial strain a high-profile signing like Haaland would entail, especially given Haaland’s projected high market value and the hefty fee City would demand for his release.