Saudi Arabian clubs 'to return for Robert Lewandowski in January'

The Poland international is said to have rejected several approaches from the Saudi Pro League over the summer in order to remain at Camp Nou.

However, according to ESPORT 3, there will again be multiple offers at the start of 2024, with the Saudi Arabia transfer window set to open on January 1 and run until January 30.

The report claims that a number of Saudi clubs remain keen on the experienced forward, with Barcelona again facing a battle to keep hold of him during the winter.

Lewandowski has scored twice and provided one assist in four La Liga appearances for the reigning champions at the start of the 2023-24 campaign.

The 35-year-old made the move to Camp Nou from Bayern Munich last summer, and he was key to the team's La Liga title success in 2022-23, scoring 23 times in Spain's top flight.

In total, Lewandowski managed 33 goals and eight assists in 46 appearances at club level last term, and he has another three years left to run on his contract, with the option of a further year.

Barcelona would find it difficult to turn down a big offer for the veteran considering their financial position, although it is very difficult to imagine them letting him leave in the middle of the season.

The Catalan side lack genuine competition for Lewandowski in the centre-forward spot, but they did manage to sign Joao Felix on loan from Atletico Madrid on transfer deadline day.

Vitor Roque, 18, is also set to move to Camp Nou from Athletico Paranaense next July.

The forward has scored 27 goals in 76 appearances for his Brazilian side and is expected to be a part of the Barcelona squad for the 2024-25 campaign.

Ousmane Dembele left Camp Nou over the summer for Paris Saint-Germain, but 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, who has recently become Spain's youngest-ever player and goalscorer, has stepped up to become a vital player early in the season.

Ferran Torres has also come up with two goals in three appearances this term, with the 23-year-old staying with Barcelona despite being heavily linked with a summer exit.

Raphinha was another player to be linked with a departure, but it is understood that the club never considered selling the Brazilian despite their financial problems.