Barcelona Identify Omar Marmoush as Potential Summer Target

​FC Barcelona has reportedly placed Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush on their summer shortlist as the club intensifies its search for a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski. Reports from Sport indicate that while Julián Álvarez of Atlético de Madrid remains the primary target for the Blaugrana hierarchy, a prohibitive €150 million valuation has forced the club to explore more feasible alternatives. Marmoush, who joined the Premier League champions from Eintracht Frankfurt for €75 million in January 2025, has emerged as a high-quality "Plan B" due to his tactical versatility and high-intensity pressing style.

​The interest from Hansi Flick’s technical department stems from Marmoush’s ability to play across the front line, a trait that would allow him to complement existing stars like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. Despite his high potential, the 27-year-old Egyptian international has found consistent starts difficult to come by at the Etihad Stadium due to the dominance of Erling Haaland. Recent stats show Marmoush has managed only five Premier League starts this season, though he has remained productive in limited minutes, notably scoring twice in a Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle United.

​FC Barcelona is reportedly "positioned" to strike should Marmoush request an exit to secure more regular playing time. While Manchester City and manager Pep Guardiola are not actively looking to sell, the club’s policy often allows players to depart if a suitable offer arrives and the player expresses a desire for a new challenge. Interestingly, Marmoush shares the same agency, CAA Stellar, as Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez, which could facilitate smoother negotiations. However, competition is expected to be stiff, as Atlético de Madrid has also been linked with the forward as a potential replacement should Julián Álvarez eventually depart the Metropolitano.