FC Barcelona are maintaining a close watch on Ivorian forward Karim Konaté as they continue their search for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.
The Catalan club have been assessing several attacking options in recent months, but Konaté has emerged as a player of sustained interest.
According to reports from Les Transferts, the Blaugrana first placed him on their shortlist last November and could revisit the possibility of a deal when the summer transfer window opens.
Currently contracted to RB Salzburg until 2028, the 21-year-old striker is viewed as one of the Austrian club’s brightest prospects.
Konaté has impressed with his sharp movement, technical ability and composure in front of goal, attributes that have made him one of the most closely watched young forwards in European football.
During the previous season, he recorded eight goals and two assists in 17 appearances, a return that highlighted his potential to become a prolific scorer.
His progress, however, was interrupted by a cruciate ligament injury that sidelined him for a significant period. Barcelona’s interest is understood to be contingent on his recovery and sustained fitness in the months ahead.
Konaté’s contractual situation makes any pursuit a complex one. With his deal at Salzburg running for another four years, the Austrian champions are under no pressure to sell and would likely demand a substantial fee for one of their most valuable assets.
Transfermarkt currently values the striker at around €15 million, though that figure could rise significantly if he resumes scoring consistently upon his return to full fitness.
Financial considerations aside, Barcelona’s recruitment strategy has increasingly focused on young players capable of developing into long-term pillars of the team. With Lewandowski approaching the latter stages of his career, the need to secure a successor has become a pressing priority.
Club officials are understood to admire Konaté’s blend of youth, versatility and potential to adapt to the demands of La Liga.
Born in Côte d’Ivoire, Konaté has already represented his country at international level, adding to his growing reputation. His performances in Austria, where he earns an annual salary of approximately €361,920, have attracted interest from across Europe. Yet Barcelona’s sustained monitoring suggests the Spanish giants see him as a particularly suitable option for the future.
The coming months are expected to be decisive. Should Konaté return strongly from injury and maintain his upward trajectory, Barcelona may move from observation to negotiation.
For the player, a potential transfer to Camp Nou would represent the most significant step of his career, placing him on one of football’s biggest stages.
For now, RB Salzburg remain focused on their domestic and European ambitions, with Konaté an integral part of their long-term plans.
But as Barcelona weigh their options for a post-Lewandowski era, the Ivorian striker continues to feature prominently on their radar — a testament to both his talent and the potential he holds for the future of one of Europe’s most storied clubs.
