Barcelona identify Man Utd target as PERFECT Lewandowski replacement

Cameron Smith

18 Dec 2023 18:35 GMT
3 min read

Barcelona are the latest team to express their interest in signing RB Leipzig forward Lois Openda, according to reports in Spain.

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Openda, 23, only joined Leipzig from RC Lens this summer, but he has already been linked with a surprise move away following his electric start to life in the Bundesliga.

The Belgium international has 14 goals and four assists in 21 appearances across the league and Champions League this season, after his €38.5 million summer move from Ligue 1.

He scored in both of Leipzig’s Champions League group stage matches against Manchester City, including a stunning brace at the Etihad Stadium in November, while his Bundesliga form has been exemplary.

In fact, Openda has been in such good form that Timo Werner has been told to find a new club and Arsenal target Benjamin Sesko has only started three league games so far this campaign.

As a result, it will come as little surprise that he has garnered the attention of several top clubs across Europe.

According to Belgian media, both Liverpool and Newcastle United are eyeing a move for Openda, while Manchester United are also keen, as per The Mirror.

Arsenal were also interested in pursuing a move for the 23-year-old during his time at Lens, while Leicester City were on the Openda hype-train very early, but are now extremely unlikely to land the forward, even if they return to the Premier League next campaign.

Barcelona want Openda

Spanish outlet Fichajes have reported that Openda is now on Barcelona’s radar as they ponder their options in search of a long-term Robert Lewandowski replacement.

The Poland international is now 35 years old and has only scored three goals in his last 13 games, with calls for him to be dropped from the starting XI prevalent amongst the Blaugrana fanbase.

Vitor Roque will, of course, join the club in 2024, but Barcelona are also keeping tabs on Openda, Jonathan David and Santiago Gimenez, according to Fichajes.