Harry Kane tops Barcelona shortlist as Lewandowski nears exit

November 13, 2025 Oliver Obel

Barcelona are already preparing for life after Robert Lewandowski, with reports suggesting Harry Kane has become their top target to replace the veteran striker when his contract expires next summer.

The England captain’s prolific record in Germany has caught the attention of the Catalan giants, who may consider triggering his Bayern Munich release clause ahead of the 2025–26 season, according to The Guardian.

Kane leads Barca’s transfer plans

Barcelona are expected to move for a new No. 9 next summer, with Kane now viewed as the preferred option. Since leaving Tottenham Hotspur in 2023, he has been in exceptional form for Bayern, netting 108 goals in 113 games and winning his first major trophy with last season’s Bundesliga title.

Kane, who turned 32 in July, still has nearly two years left on his deal, but BBC Sport reports that Barcelona could meet his £57 million release clause to secure the striker. His consistency and leadership make him an ideal successor to Lewandowski, who is expected to leave as a free agent.

Other potential targets

Barcelona’s search for a striker doesn’t end with Kane. Reuters notes that club president Joan Laporta remains “obsessed” with signing Erling Haaland, though the club’s financial constraints make such a move unlikely. Lower-cost alternatives, such as Etta Eyong, are also being explored.

Meanwhile, earlier reports linking Julián Álvarez to the Catalans appear speculative, as the Argentine remains with Manchester City rather than Atlético Madrid.

Lewandowski, now 37, has admitted he has yet to decide on his next move. Speaking while on international duty with Poland, he said:

“I still don’t know the answer. I’m at peace with myself. Even if the club contacted me now, I still wouldn’t answer that question. I have to feel what’s best for me.”

Lewandowski still delivering

Despite reduced minutes this season due to injury and competition from Ferran Torres, Lewandowski remains Barcelona’s top scorer. He has scored seven goals in nine La Liga matches, according to league data — second only to Kylian Mbappé in Spain’s scoring charts.

His continued productivity highlights his value to Hansi Flick’s side, even as the club weighs whether to extend his contract or move for a marquee replacement.

Kane’s future in Munich

Kane has shown no urgency to leave Bayern. Asked earlier this season about his future, he suggested he was open to extending his stay in Germany.

“We can certainly talk about that,” he said. “I have almost two years left. It’s not like I’m in the final year of my contract and anyone is panicking. I think they’re happy with me, and I’m happy with them.”

Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, has impressed for Barcelona with six assists and two goals, according to La Liga statistics. His strong start has sparked talk of a permanent move, though the club has ruled out activating his purchase clause in January.

Financial decisions ahead

Barcelona’s financial Fair Play restrictions will heavily shape their transfer activity. AP News reports that any major deal — including a move for Kane — would likely depend on player sales and wage restructuring.

For now, Lewandowski remains focused on completing his contract, while Kane’s next move will hinge on how talks between Bayern and Barcelona develop over the coming months.

Sources: The Guardian, BBC Sport, Reuters, AP News, La Liga