As if that wasn’t enough incentive to pursue a deal, the legend in question would also be available on a free transfer. That is, unless something dramatic happens at the Camp Nou before the end of this season. Barcelona are in the process of allowing Robert Lewandowski to leave the club for free when his contract expires at the end of June. However, the Polish player, who has 716 goals in 1,029 professional appearances, continues to show he is capable of competing at the highest level, with 17 goals and four assists in 41 appearances this season.
When summer signing Benjamin Sesco was injured at the end of 2025, Carrick found himself lacking options up front. Matheus Cunha and Brian Mbeumo have filled in as makeshift strikers during that period, but neither is perhaps of the quality that United would ideally want to rely on in that position.
With Lewandowski’s contract expiring, United could immediately reach a pre-contract agreement with the player if they wish. The fact that Poland will miss the 2026 World Cup is an added advantage, allowing them to spend a full pre-season under Carrick, or whoever ends up as permanent manager at Old Trafford.
Despite approaching his 38th birthday in August, Lewandowski is highly attracted to a reduced-price contract, even if it’s just to guide the young Sesco’s development for a season or so. The former Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund talisman said he was close to joining United in 2012 and approved the move before being told he was off.
“I decided to say yes to Manchester United,” he told BBC Sport last year. “I wanted to join Manchester United to see Alex Ferguson.
“They (Dortmund) couldn’t sell me because they knew I could earn more if I stayed and could probably wait another year or two. But it’s true that I said yes to Manchester United.”
“But when I look back at the time I played for Bayern Munich, Dortmund and now Barcelona, I have to say that I am very happy with my career. I don’t feel like I missed out on anything, because every move and decision… I made because I wanted to.”
There may be some issues at Old Trafford with the veteran still looking to add to the elite club’s collection. And the recent resurgence witnessed under Carrick could prove to be enough to lure him if United come calling.
Given Lewandowski’s advanced age and astronomical salary, it’s no surprise that Barcelona are willing to let him go. Details regarding the striker’s salary vary as it is reportedly increasing over time, but Barca’s biggest earners are thought to be in the £400,000-£500,000-a-week range.
Lewandowski will need to cut those expectations by at least half before starting negotiations. However, if it turns out he is willing to take a significant pay cut, a move that has been in the works for more than a decade could still prove highly beneficial for all involved.
