According to Fichajes.net, Barcelona has reportedly set its sights on Jean-Philippe Mateta as a potential successor to Robert Lewandowski. Mateta, who currently plays as a striker for Crystal Palace, made headlines recently after scoring both goals in his team’s 2-0 victory against Manchester United in an away Premier League match held on Sunday, February 2.
Despite Lewandowski’s impressive form this season, where he has netted 30 goals in 32 appearances across various competitions, Barcelona is already planning for the future. The Polish forward, now 36 years old, is under contract with the club until 2026. However, given his age, Barcelona is actively seeking a younger striker who can gradually take over his role. Mateta appears to fit the bill perfectly due to his promising profile.
The French striker has demonstrated his capabilities in the ongoing Premier League season, scoring 10 goals in 24 matches and adding three more in the EFL Cup. Standing at 1.92 meters tall, Mateta’s towering physical presence makes him an ideal target man for Barcelona’s attack. His excellent positioning and relentless work ethic have earned him widespread praise, making him one of the key figures at Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park.
Mateta initially joined Crystal Palace from Mainz 05 in 2021 but was quickly loaned back to the German club. It wasn’t until 2022 that he became a consistent feature in Palace’s starting lineup, cementing his place as a crucial component of their attacking force.
Barcelona is reportedly optimistic about securing Mateta’s signature despite facing financial constraints in the transfer market. While the 27-year-old has a contract with Crystal Palace until 2026, reports suggest that negotiating a deal may not pose significant difficulties for the Catalan giants.
The plan for Barcelona is to bring Mateta in during the upcoming summer transfer window. This move would allow Lewandowski to receive much-needed rest during what is likely to be his final season at the club. Mateta would initially serve as Lewandowski’s understudy, gradually transitioning into the primary center-forward role once the veteran striker’s contract concludes. It appears unlikely that Barcelona will extend Lewandowski’s current deal beyond its 2026 expiration.
As Mateta potentially steps up to become Barcelona’s leading striker, the club hopes he will guide their attack with strength and tactical intelligence. La Blaugrana is reportedly impressed by his skill set and strategic awareness on the field.
Currently, Barcelona sits third on the La Liga table with 45 points, trailing behind league leaders Real Madrid, who have amassed 49 points. The Catalan side will undoubtedly aim to close this gap quickly and reignite their challenge for the league title, which they last won in the 2022-23 season.
