Barcelona’s 2026 transfer plans may disappoint fans

Since the summer “economic leverage” allowed them to spend lavishly, Barcelona has been lacking in big-money signings. Despite the club’s repeated assurances that the salary cap is about to expire, the salary cap crisis has severely limited their ability to bring in star players.

In 2022, Barcelona spent €214 million on new players, but over the following three years, only €121.5 million was spent. Their total sales over those three years were €221.5 million, highlighting the impact of the salary cap on their business.

Barcelona’s 2026 Questions

For Barcelona’s recruitment department, led by Deco, the main issue currently lies at the No. 9 position. Robert Lewandowski’s contract is expiring, and at 37, considering his high salary, it seems unlikely the team will consider a contract extension. According to sources in the sport, both the player and the club have considered a transfer for next summer, but his successor is far from certain.

Over the past two years, due to questions surrounding Lewandowski’s performance two seasons ago and his age, Barcelona was linked with Alexander Isak, Benjamin Cesco, and Victor Giocres—all three of whom moved to Liverpool, Manchester United, and Arsenal, respectively, this summer. Since then, no strong links have been established. Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland have both been mentioned as potential candidates, but transfer fees are likely to exceed €100 million.

Barcelona has identified a successor

This transfer fee is far beyond Barcelona’s financial means. The Catalan daily further reports that, as things stand, Barcelona’s plan is to have Ferran Torres replace Lewandowski. Following the Polish veteran’s return from injury, Torres has played in all three of Barcelona’s matches this season and will be vying for a starting spot.

Undoubtedly, salary cap issues are also a factor in the team’s considerations, although Torres’ performance as a striker has exceeded expectations. It is worth noting that this season is a test for Torres, and the club may adjust its plans based on his performance. Torres is a controversial figure among Barcelona fans. Although he was in great form last season, he experienced a particularly poor period under the coaching of Xavi Hernandez and was criticized.