Robert Lewandowski has turned down an offer from Chelsea with his heart set on a move to Barcelona.
The 33-year-old is set to leave Bayern Munich this summer after failing to agree a new deal with the German giants – with just 12 months left on his current contract.
Chelsea are currently in talks with Inter Milan over a move that will see Romelu Lukaku return to Italy after just one season back in the Premier League.
The Blues are prepared to sanction Lukaku’s exit with reports claiming that Lewandowski is Tuchel’s first choice replacement.
Tuchel is a huge admirer of the Poland international and while he will turn 34 in August, believes he can still thrive in the Premier League.
But while Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain have made offers, Lewandowski will choose a move to the Camp Nou, SPORT report.
Barcelona will have to pay €40million to sign the striker with the Catalan giants under extreme financial pressure that has left them unable to register to new arrivals in Andreas Christensen and Franck Kessie.
But a major development at the club looks set to alleviate that pressure and allow Xavi to make the necessary changes to his squad this summer.
Over the last 24 hours, Barcelona’s members have voted in favour of the sale of future merchandising and television rights.
The successful vote gives club president Joan Laporta and his directors the green light to sell 49.9% of the club’s Barca Licensing and Merchandising (BLM) subsidiary and 25% of its La Liga television rights revenues over the coming years. Both were passed by huge majorities — 88% for BLM and 84% for TV revenues.
Reports suggest the moves could bring in close to £600million which will be used to offset the club’s debt – which stands at over £1billion – and improve the playing squad this summer.
MORE : Thomas Tuchel urges Chelsea to sign Robert Lewandowski to replace Romelu Lukaku this summer
MORE : Harry Redknapp gives Tottenham, Chelsea and Arsenal hope of signing Everton forward Richarlison
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