Transfer Centre

Robert Lewandowski returns to Bayern Munich training amid Barcelona, Chelsea links

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 12 July 2022

Lewandowski returns to Bayern training amid Barca, Chelsea links

Robert Lewandowski returns to Bayern Munich training ahead of the new season, despite continued links with the likes of Barcelona and Chelsea.

Robert Lewandowski made his return to pre-season training with Bayern Munich on Tuesday morning.

Since the end of 2021-22, Lewandowski has frequently stated that he is keen to secure a transfer away from the Allianz Arena this summer.

At the age of 33, the legendary Pole feels that it is the right time to take on a new challenge given the current stage of his career.

However, despite the chance to generate a fee for Lewandowski, Bayern officials have repeatedly insisted that the veteran attacker is not for sale.

Lewandowski has been provided with an extended summer break due to his participation in Poland's UEFA Nations League fixtures through to the middle of June.

Bayern Munich's Robert Lewandowski celebrates scoring their first goal with teammates on April 9, 2022 © Reuters

On Tuesday morning, however, Lewandowski was seen arriving at Bayern's training facilities for the first time ahead of the next campaign.

His appearance comes just 18 days before Bayern play their first competitive fixture of 2022-23, which is the DFL-Supercup final against RB Leipzig.

As it stands, it is unclear whether Lewandowski will be made available for selection or whether he will still be with the Bundesliga champions.

If recent reports are to be believed, Bayern may be open to cashing in on Lewandowski if they receive a proposal in excess of €50m (£42.38m).

Barcelona coach Xavi during the match on March 10, 2022 © Reuters

Barcelona are known to be Lewandowski's preferred destination, but it is unclear whether the Catalan giants will be in a position to finance a deal this summer.

The La Liga giants appear to be prioritising a new contract for Ousmane Dembele and the big-money addition of Leeds United winger Raphinha.

Should Barcelona fail to meet Bayern's valuation, it has been claimed that Chelsea are waiting in the wings to try to sign Lewandowski.

The player allegedly views Stamford Bridge as his second-choice option ahead of Paris Saint-Germain, while Blues head coach Thomas Tuchel is familiar with the forward given his time in German football.