Barcelona are set to struggle to find a replacement for Robert Lewandowski this summer as the veteran striker is set to leave. There are doubts over whether the Catalan club have the financial means, or the willingness, to pay a huge sum for an elite striker in the summer transfer window, and the club have already changed their main target.
Barcelona were initially reported to be targeting Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez, but the high cost of the transfer seems to have made the Catalan club withdraw from the race. For this reason, attention has shifted to Brazilian striker João Pedro, who is now considered a priority for the number nine position. However, Chelsea are also unwilling to sell the player and are reportedly demanding at least €100 million for his card.
According to The Daily Briefing, Manchester City would be willing to let Omar Marmoush leave for a fee in the region of €60m to €65m this summer. The Egyptian striker, who has been struggling to find a regular place in the starting line-up, was linked with Barcelona earlier in the season as a potential attacking option. Although he is not actively seeking a move away, Marmoush is said to be open to a move if an attractive offer comes in.
Barcelona continue to be mentioned as a club interested in him, but Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa have also previously shown interest in the player. Considering that Marmoush was transferred for 75 million euros 18 months ago and has not had a very productive period at Manchester City, it is believed that the Catalans may try to negotiate a lower price. The 27-year-old still has three years left on his contract with the English club.
Marmoush is valued for his attacking flexibility and ability to link up with the midfield, but his scoring stats are not at the level Barcelona would expect from a main striker. In 59 appearances for Manchester City, the Egyptian has scored 16 goals and provided six assists.
Furthermore, Marmoushi's profile differs significantly from that of João Pedro or Lewandowski, which could indicate that coach Hansi Flick is looking for a more physical striker for next season.
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