Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has identified Stuttgart striker Nick Woltemade as the ideal long-term successor to veteran forward Robert Lewandowski, according to reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes.
Stuttgart’s Nick Woltemade Emerges as Barcelona’s Top Striker Target
The 23-year-old German has emerged as a top candidate to lead Barca’s attack once Lewandowski’s contract expires in 2026.
Woltemade enjoyed a standout 2024/25 season, netting 17 goals and 3 assists in 32 appearances across the Bundesliga and German Cup.
His form continued at the U21 European Championships, where he added six goals and three assists, showcasing his versatility across multiple attacking roles.
Flick, who has tracked the striker for years, praised his blend of physicality, technical skill, and tactical intelligence, noting his ability to “thrive in tight spaces and link play effectively”.
Flick sees Woltemade as a perfect fit alongside Barcelona’s young talents like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, calling him a “top-level offensive force” in internal discussions.
The plan involves signing him next summer to overlap with Lewandowski for a season, allowing the Polish star to mentor his successor before departing as a free agent.
Stuttgart’s €70 million (£59m) valuation poses a major challenge, a price that already deterred Bayern Munich.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta views the deal as a long-term investment but must navigate financial constraints to meet the demand. While Bayern could re-enter the race, Flick’s endorsement gives Barca an edge.
Barcelona aims to initiate talks soon to avoid inflated fees or rival bids. Woltemade, under contract until 2028, would join a core of young stars tasked with sustaining Barca’s European ambitions.
For now, the Catalans see him as the strategic answer to their post-Lewandowski era.
