Robert Lewandowski, arguably the best striker in world football, has enjoyed a brilliant career in the Bundesliga, having won the title for an impressive 10th time back in late April. However, the iconic Polish striker might bid farewell to the German top-flight this summer.
After weeks of speculation, Bayern Munich officially confirmed what many speculated to be true: Lewandowski wants to leave the Allianz Arena. With the 33-year-old entering the final year of his contract and garnering interest from Spain, the former Dortmund ace is keen on a new experience.
The club's director of football Hasan Salihamidzic made this announcement in the build-up to their final game of the season, an away clash with Wolfsburg which ended in a 2-2 draw. The Bavarians' official stated that Robert turned down the team's offer and is not willing to accept their terms for a contract extension.
However, will he be sold in the summer due to there being only 12 months left on his current deal? Salihamidzic publicly stressed that he will fulfill his contract and will thus not be sold, but only time will tell whether the Bundesliga champions will stay resolute on this stance.
"I spoke to Lewa. In the conversation he told me that he did not want to accept our offer to extend the contract and that he would like to leave the club," the director of football told Sky Sport Germany.
"He said that he would like to do something else. But our attitude hasn't changed.
"Lewa has a contract until June 30, 2023. That's a fact. I don't deal with that because our stance has always been clear."
If Lewandowski was to be granted a summer exit, all fingers point to a Barcelona move. The Spanish giants have been heavily linked with the goalscoring machine as they attempt to secure a world-class striker ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Initially, the Blaugrana were keen on Erling Haaland but were ruled out of that race due to their financial troubles. Lewandowski, who is entering the final year of his deal, should come at a cut-price fee when compared to the quality he brings. Nonetheless, Xavi's side might still need to sell a few players before launching a bid for the Polish superstar.
