Barcelona president Joan Laporta confirms club will extend Robert Lewandowski's contract when he meets key criteria in contract

Barcelona have kicked off their season in spectacular fashion, currently sitting at the top of the LaLiga table. Central to their strong performances has been Robert Lewandowski, whose contract could expire at the end of the season. Club president Joan Laporta recently provided an update on this situation.

Lewandowski joined Barcelona at the start of the 2022-23 season from Bayern Munich, signing a deal that runs until the end of the 2025-26 season. In his first season, he scored 33 goals across all competitions, helping the Catalan club win LaLiga under Xavi.

However, his performances took a dip last season, as he recorded his lowest goal tally since the 2014-15 season, with just 26 goals across all competitions. But in the new era under Hansi Flick, the Polish forward has rediscovered his form, with 10 goals in just nine LaLiga matches and two more in the Champions League.

Although Lewandowski's deal runs until the end of 2025-26 season, Barcelona have the option to terminate his contract early at the end of this season.

But Laporta has confirmed that his deal will extend by an additional year once the 36-year-old completes 50 percent of the games this campaign. Given his importance to the team under Flick, this extension seems all but guaranteed.

“We will extend the contract of Robert Lewandowski as soon as he reaches 50% of the games. It’s a clause already included into his contract,” Laporta said (via Fabrizio Romano).

Barcelona currently have 24 points from nine games and sit three points ahead of Real Madrid, who are still struggling to find their rhythm. Flick has relied heavily on his front three, with Lewandowski delivering the goals, while both Raphinha and Lamine Yamal are creating plenty of chances for him.

Robert Lewandowski set to be available for Barcelona despite injury concern

The international break arguably came at the wrong time for Barcelona, as they had built strong momentum in the league, winning eight of their first nine games. Flick will be concerned about a few injuries, with both Lamine Yamal and Lewandowski picking up knocks.

Yamal left the Spain squad due to a minor hamstring issue, while Lewandowski suffered a shin injury during Poland’s clash against Croatia after a collision with goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.

Although the Polish striker finished the match, he appeared to be in discomfort and was seen limping afterward. However, according to reports from Diario AS, tests ruled out any injury for the forward.

Lewandowski is expected to be available for Barcelona’s clash against Sevilla on Sunday, October 20. Following that, the team faces two crucial fixtures - first against Lewandowski’s former club, Bayern Munich, in the Champions League, and then the highly anticipated El Clasico against Real Madrid.