Barcelona Face Tough Choice Between Torres and Lewandowski Ahead of 2026/27 Season

BARCELONA, Feb. 10, 2026 — FC Barcelona are confronting a pivotal squad decision ahead of the 2026/27 season, with the club expected to choose between Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski as part of its forward options while planning to bring in a new centre-forward.

As Barcelona begin shaping their summer transfer strategy, finding a top-level striker has emerged as a priority — a move that will almost certainly influence personnel decisions across the attack. The club currently has both Torres and Lewandowski competing for the No. 9 role, but financial considerations and sporting direction mean only one may remain in a prominent role next term.

A Season of Decision for Two Forwards

Lewandowski, the seasoned Polish striker, has been a reliable goalscorer for Barcelona since his arrival, offering a steady threat in La Liga and European competition. His contract expires on June 30, 2026, but he has reportedly offered to extend on reduced terms and accept a secondary role if needed. The striker has scored 13 goals in 28 appearances this season, demonstrating he still possesses an eye for goal even as he nears the twilight of his career.

Torres, on the other hand, represents a younger and more versatile option. At 25 years old, the Spaniard has enjoyed an impressive campaign, netting 16 goals in 31 matches and showcasing his ability to play across the front line. His contract runs until 2027, giving Barcelona more control over his future and potential transfer value.

Sporting director Hansi Flick and the club hierarchy now face a clear dilemma: whether to offer Torres a long-term role as the main centre-forward support or to retain Lewandowski for one more season while introducing a marquee signing to lead the line. The arrival of a new striker could limit minutes for whichever forward remains, making the decision all the more significant.

Transfer Window and Tactical Implications

Barcelona’s pursuit of a new centre-forward — with names like Julian Álvarez and Dušan Vlahović linked as potential targets — has added urgency to the situation. A high-profile signing would reshape the attacking hierarchy, potentially pushing a veteran like Lewandowski into a reduced role or prompting Barcelona to capitalize on Torres’s market value should it need funds to finance new arrivals.

Torres’s expressed desire to stay at Camp Nou could work in his favor, especially as the club weighs future resale value and long-term contribution. Lewandowski’s willingness to remain under special terms, however, underscores his commitment and the respect he still commands within the squad.

Barcelona supporters are watching closely as the front office balances immediate competitive needs with strategic planning for sustained success. The decision may ripple beyond the forward line; it will influence the team’s approach in La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey.

As the summer transfer window draws nearer, Barcelona’s leadership must finalize a plan that blends experience with potential, keeping the club competitive while modernizing its attack ahead of a crucial campaign.