Transfer Talk: Lewa and Bayern still Poles apart as Barca eye swoop

Robert Lewandowski has been the Bundesliga's top scorer for five seasons in a row — but German rearguards may soon be set for some respite. 

Barcelona are reportedly ready to make a move for the Bayern Munich star this summer, with contract negotiations in Bavaria reaching an impasse. 

Ahead of Poland's clash with Wales this evening, we consider whether Bayern's No9 will be heading to the Camp Nou in the coming months.

Goal machine

There is no doubt that the loss of Lewandowski would be a devastating blow for German champions Bayern. 

The 33-year-old striker has been a figurehead for Die Roten since his switch from Borussia Dortmund in 2014 — breaking records galore during his time at the Allianz Arena. 

He hit the ground running upon arrival, netting the fastest ever five-goal haul in Bundesliga history during a nine-minute demolition of Wolfsburg in 2015. 

And Lewandowski has not stopped scoring since, winning eight consecutive league titles, three DFB-Pokals and a Champions League. 

The talisman has also become the second most prolific marksman in Bundesliga history with 312 goals, behind only Gerd Muller (365). Yet, uncertainty looms over whether he will surpass the legendary German's total.

Contract conundrum

With just a year remaining on Lewandowski's current deal, speculation of an exit has dominated proceedings in Bavaria this term. 

Running down a contract is certainly in the striker's playbook — that is how he sealed a free transfer to Bayern eight years ago. 

Murmurs of a move away from Munich emerged after Die Roten's hierarchy reportedly refused to match Lewandowski's demands. 

The German champions typically only give players over the age of 30 a one-year contract — but the Pole is believed to want a two-year deal. 

He is also already FCB's highest earner and officials are said to feel that a salary increase would impact the club's wage structure.

Barcelona beckons

Reports last month suggested that Lewandowski's next destination is most likely to be Barcelona after he demanded an exit this summer rather than waiting to become a free agent in 2023.

Manager Xavi has made it clear to the Blaugrana board that he would like to sign a striker in the upcoming window as his side bid to dethrone rivals Real Madrid in LaLiga. 

Barca have already missed out on one forward from Germany after Erling Haaland secured a move to England with Manchester City. 

And despite the Catalan outfit's well-documented monetary issues, it is believed that they will still be able to pay high salaries.

Oliver's opposition

However, a move to Spain may not be so straightforward for Lewandowski with the Bayern hierarchy preparing to stand firm. 

Chief executive Oliver Kahn was certainly bullish last month. 

He said: "We know this alarmism from the past. It's not something that causes us a headache. 

"We made an offer to his agent. He rejected this offer. That's his right. 

"The fact is, he has a contract and he will fulfil it. We are very clear and consistent about that. 

"That's the way things are here at Bayern. There is no player above the club."

Swap deal on the cards?

If Barcelona are unable to strike a deal for Lewandowski, the Blaugrana may be forced to think outside the box. 

One option that has been mooted in the Spanish press is a swap deal with Barca midfielder Gavi. 

The 17-year-old's contract discussions are said to have hit a stumbling block, which has attracted interest from the Bundesliga giants. 

His deal is also set to expire in the summer of 2023, so the Catalans are under pressure to either renew or sell. 

Bayern may be insisting on keeping Lewandowski — but their heads could be turned by the opportunity to sign one of the continent's brightest prospects.