Barcelona eyeing €25m RB Salzburg ace as they continue the hunt for Lewandowski’s successor

SALZBURG, AUSTRIA - OCTOBER 01: Ludovic Ajorque of Stade Brestois 29 jumps for a header with Karim Konate of FC Salzburg during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 match between FC Salzburg and Stade Brestois 29 at Stadion Salzburg on October 01, 2024 in Salzburg, Austria.

Photo by Jasmin Walter/Getty Images

Keeping in view the rather advanced age of Robert Lewandowski, FC Barcelona are already planning for life after him. The Pole has been performing at a very high level since the start of this season, and even at the age of 36 years, he is proving himself to still be one of the best strikers in Europe.

However, there is no doubt that there are only a few seasons left in which the Pole can continue to play at the highest level. His current contract with Barcelona has only one year left on it, but it will get an automatic one-year extension if he plays at least 50% of the games this season.

The Catalans have been linked with several players for his purpose. The most notable of these have been the Lille striker, Jonathan David, whose contract is going to end at the end of this season, and who has already made it clear that he is not going to renew with the French club.

In such a context, Fichajes reports that Barcelona are considering another option for this purpose. This player is Karim Konate, the young RB Salzburg forward, who has the ingredients to be the perfect replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

The 20-year-old forward can play in several attacking positions, and his speed has been a particularly eye-catching attribute, which can also attract the interest of Barcelona as he can integrate well in a high-pressing and dynamic attacking game.

The RB Salzburg forward is currently valued at €25 million, but the Austrians will be looking for around €35 million to part ways with such a promising attacker.

However, this price can be increased further as several Premier League teams are also vying for his signature. But he will still be an interesting option for Barcelona as his incorporation can provide the club with a long-term player for the striker position.