At 37 Robert Lewandowski is in positive talks with Chicago Fire over an MLS move after a 42-goal 2024–25. Betting impact: expect Chicago’s match and season odds to shorten, stronger anytime-scorer and Golden Boot markets for Lewandowski, but bettors should weigh injury history and reduced European form before backing long-term markets.
Lewandowski eyes MLS exit as Chicago Fire emerge as frontrunners
Robert Lewandowski, one of the most prolific strikers of the last 15 years, is holding positive talks with Chicago Fire about a summer move to Major League Soccer. The 37-year-old’s career spans standout spells at Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and Barcelona, and he remains a proven goalscorer despite advancing age.
Recent form: prolific season followed by mixed campaign
Lewandowski delivered a remarkable 42-goal haul across all competitions in 2024–25, including 27 in La Liga, helping Barcelona reclaim the title. The current 2025–26 season has been disrupted by injuries, though he’s still managed eight La Liga goals in 12 appearances. However, his influence in Europe has dipped, with no goals from five Champions League outings this season.
Contract situation and Barcelona’s next steps
With his contract expiring in the summer, Barcelona appear willing to explore fresh attacking options and a younger forward. Names such as Harry Kane, Julián Álvarez and Erling Haaland have been linked as potential replacements, though Barcelona’s financial constraints make any major summer business uncertain.
Why Chicago Fire make strategic sense
Chicago Fire are reported to be leading the pursuit and have held encouraging talks with the striker. Financially, the move is feasible within MLS salary rules, and Chicago benefit from having Lewandowski on their discovery list, which blocks other MLS clubs from signing him without a fee. The city’s large Polish community also offers a clear commercial and fanbase boost, echoing the impact of recent high-profile signings in MLS.
How the move could fit on the pitch
At club level, Lewandowski would offer immediate goal threat and veteran leadership. Tactically he remains a classic penalty-box finisher, useful in set-pieces and central striking roles where clinical finishing can lift a team’s attacking output despite reduced mobility.
Betting implications and tips for punters
Expect short-term market reactions if the move gains momentum: - Match markets: Chicago’s win and match-goal markets could shorten when Lewandowski is available. - Goalscorer markets: Anytime- and first-goalscorer odds will likely become shorter for Lewandowski, especially in home fixtures. - Season markets: Outright bets on MLS Golden Boot and Chicago to finish in top positions may shift; consider hedging long-term wagers given his age and injury record. - Totals and handicaps: More goals for Chicago could push totals markets higher; monitor lines around expected playing time.
Betting cautions: factor in injury history, age-related decline and adaptation to a new league. For risk-managed punting, favour short-term, game-by-game markets or conditional bets (e.g., appearances + anytime scorer) rather than large outright liabilities.
What to watch next
Key developments to monitor are official contract confirmations, medicals, and lineup integration plans. These will determine how quickly odds move and which markets offer the best value for bettors and fantasy managers.
Sources: Barcelona track Villa's Pau Torres
The Pole is a regular goal-getter for Barcelona but his contract is winding down.
Si
