Lewandowski vs Messi? 'Various' MLS clubs plot move for Barcelona star

Tom Weber

6 Nov 2023 14:21 CST
4 min read

Robert Lewandowski, Los Angeles, Barcelona, MLS — © ProShots

"Various" Major League Soccer clubs are keen on signing Robert Lewandowski, according to a report.

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After Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Riqui Puig, the next star with Barcelona links could be on his way to the United States. According to Nico Bravo of TUDN, Robert Lewandowski has many suitors stateside as most clubs begin preparing for the 2024 season.

"Many MLS teams will be looking to add a high profile striker as a [Designated Player] during the off-season and the name that has come up in various organizations is no other than Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski," Bravo wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

READ: 'I'd like to return' - In-form star breaks silence on Barcelona rumours

The fact that Lewandowski is being eyed isn't surprising. The legendary striker has repeatedly been mentioned as a potential target for MLS clubs in recent years and at 35, now seems an ideal time for him to finally make the move. Indeed, reports in Spain in previous weeks have suggested that Barcelona are planning for life after Lewandowski, hence the links with Feyenoord's Santiago Gimenez.

One potential stumbling block could be the fact that the veteran is still under contract until 2026, meaning that it would require a transfer fee to prise him away from Barcelona. Cashing in on Lewandowski is an attractive proposition to the cash-strapped Catalans, but it's easy to forget that, unlike big Saudi clubs, most MLS sides do not have unlimited budgets - and Lewandowski is still rated at €33m.

Lewandowski alongside Messi or against Messi?

The question of where the Pole could end up is an interesting one. Of course, Inter Miami will come up given that they have Lionel Messi and so many other big names.

It has recently been announced that star striker Josef Martinez is leaving, opening up a spot for a new number nine. However, the expectation is that the vacant slot will be filled by ex-Barca man Luis Suarez.

READ: Real Madrid lead Barcelona in race for €100m star

Some fans believe Lewandowski could be on his way to the LA Galaxy. Previously asked by CBS Sports where in the US he would like to play, he answered on the West Coast. When pressed to choose between the Galaxy and LAFC, he picked the former - and it would make sense.

Like Miami, the Galaxy recently announced the exit of their chief centre-forward, Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez. Though a far cry from the dominant side of Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan, the Galaxy are still a household name and the challenge of helping them get back on their perch could prove alluring to the ultra-competitive Lewandowski.