Barcelona have begun widening their search for a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski, with reports in Spain linking the Blaugrana to an emerging Bundesliga forward who has been quietly turning heads all across Europe.
According to SPORT, Barcelona are closely monitoring the development of Fisnik Asllani, who has impressed with his performances in Germany this season.
The 23-year-old striker’s progress has not gone unnoticed and the Catalan giants are understood to be assessing whether he could fit into their long-term attacking plans.
While Lewandowski remains a key figure, Barca are aware that a gradual transition will be required given the Polish striker’s age.
Within that context, sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick are believed to be studying younger profiles capable of leading the line in the coming years.
Asllani’s rise with TSG Hoffenheim has been one of the more eye-catching stories in the Bundesliga this season, with the striker earning praise for his movement, physical presence and growing end product.
That upward trajectory has naturally attracted interest from across the continent.
Barcelona may, however, hold a subtle edge as the striker has previously spoken openly about his admiration for the club.
He admitted last year that representing the La Liga champions has long been a personal ambition, a factor that could weigh in their favour should talks progress.
Competition is still expected to be fierce as several Premier League sides, including Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa, are tracking his situation.
German heavyweights Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are also alert to Asllani’s situation.
With a contract running until 2029 and a reported €30 million release clause, Hoffenheim will not be under any pressure to part ways with their striker this summer.
If a big offer arrives though, they may find it difficult to hold on to the Kosovan.
