Manchester United are exploring defensive options in Serie A as Chicago Fire reportedly escalate their pursuit of Barcelona forward Robert Lewandowski. The transfer window may be largely quiet now, but clubs are already looking ahead to the summer, with several key storylines developing.
Lewandowski to Chicago? Fire Go “All In”
The most significant development centers around Robert Lewandowski, the 37-year-old Polish striker currently with Barcelona. According to reports, Chicago Fire have made a formal offer to Lewandowski – a two-year proposal – and are prepared to make a substantial push to bring him to Major League Soccer. The club holds discovery rights for the player, meaning no other MLS team can sign him without compensating Chicago.
Lewandowski’s future at Barcelona is uncertain as his contract is set to expire this summer. While a contract extension remains a possibility, the veteran forward is weighing his options, which also include a potentially lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League. The prospect of playing in the United States, however, appears to be gaining traction, particularly with Chicago’s aggressive pursuit. The timing is also notable, as Poland still has a chance to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, which could be a factor in Lewandowski’s decision-making process.
Should Lewandowski arrive in Chicago, it would represent a major coup for the club and a significant shift in the balance of power in the Eastern Conference. The Fire finished eighth in the Eastern Conference in 2025, reaching the playoffs before being eliminated by the Philadelphia Union. They were already a potent attacking side, finishing second in the conference in goals scored with 68, trailing only Inter Miami. Adding a proven goalscorer like Lewandowski, who has eight goals in 12 league matches for Barcelona this season, would undoubtedly elevate their attacking threat.
Barcelona, meanwhile, are reportedly already considering replacements for Lewandowski, with Borussia Dortmund’s Dusan Vlahovic emerging as a potential target, according to ESPN.
Manchester United Eye Serie A Defenders
Across the Atlantic, Manchester United are turning their attention to Serie A in their search for defensive reinforcements. The club is reportedly monitoring both Inter Milan’s Federico Dimarco and Juventus’ Pierre Kalulu, according to Calciomercato. Kalulu, in particular, is viewed as a versatile option, capable of playing both right-back and center-back. United scouts were reportedly in attendance at Inter’s recent clash with Juventus to observe both players, although Kalulu’s sending-off in that match may have complicated matters.
Other Transfer Rumors
Elsewhere in Europe, Arsenal have reportedly joined the race to sign RB Leipzig winger Antonio Nusa, with Aston Villa and Newcastle United also expressing interest. Leipzig are expected to demand a fee in the range of €50-60 million for the 19-year-old. Tottenham Hotspur, meanwhile, are determined to hold onto midfielder Lucas Bergvall despite interest from other Premier League clubs.
Harry Maguire’s future at Manchester United remains a topic of discussion, with reports suggesting his teammates believe the club should offer him a new contract. The defender’s current deal expires this summer, making him a free agent.
Further rumors include potential moves for Mohamed Salah from Liverpool to the Saudi Pro League, Aston Villa’s interest in Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, and Enzo Maresca as a potential replacement for Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Several other players are also attracting attention from various clubs across Europe, setting the stage for a busy summer transfer window.
