- Robert Lewandowski's salary increases during his first three years at the club
- However, there are concerns about the 35-year-old striker's form at Camp Nou
- 'Worst decision of the season!' Why can't football lawmakers give us a human error-free system that works? – It all starts
Barcelona are reportedly looking to escape Robert Lewandowski's £5.2million pay rise, who will enter his third year at the club next season.
The Polish striker signed for Barcelona from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2022 for £42.5 million – on a three-year contract with the option of a fourth.
Given the club's financial crisis in recent years, his contract was signed in a way that would see his salary increase year on year.
After earning £17.3m in his first season, he has earned £22.5m this season and that is expected to rise by £5.2m in his third year.
But amid Lewandowski's troubles this season and Barcelona's ongoing financial problems, the Spanish publication writes SPORT report that they want to put a stop to his raise and see if they can adjust his projected salary for the next campaign.
Barcelona are reportedly looking for a way out of Robert Lewandowski's pay rise
Lewandowski – who has struggled for form – has a deal that will see his salary increase over his first three seasons
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It comes after Barcelona manager Xavi reportedly railed against Lewandowski at half-time in their 3-2 win over Almeria on Wednesday.
After the match, in which the teams were level at halftime, Xavi said: 'At hAlready I had the most difficult conversation as a coach. Did it work? You've already seen it.'
Mundo Deportivo reported that Xavi was unhappy with his team's attitude and lack of intensity in the first half.
The report also claims that the coach threw a punch at Lewandowski during the break.
Lewandowski's form has been in question this season despite scoring nine times in 21 games in all competitions.
He has scored just once in his last five games in LaLiga and Barcelona are already seven points behind leaders Girona.
Xavi 'raged' at Lewandowski at half-time during their recent 3-2 win against Almeria
If the Polish striker takes up his option for a fourth year at Barcelona, his salary would go back to £22.5 million – which is what he is earning this year.
Barcelona had its salary cap cut by more than £320 million in September, leading to concerns about their ability to attract top players in the future.
However, president Joan Laporta has insisted Barcelona can keep loan stars Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix as they look to secure their futures at the club.