Barca target Dortmund's African beast as Lewandowski successor

Serhou Guirassy has long been considered a solid striker in the Bundesliga and Ligue 1, but over the past two seasons he has established himself among Europe's most prolific scorers. Last year he shared the Champions League Golden Boot with Barca's Raphinha - and now the two could end up as teammates.

According to Bild, the Guinean forward is the top attacking option identified by Barcelona coach Hansi Flick for the next season. Guirassy is under contract at Borussia Dortmund until 2028, and the club values him at around €100 million - a huge sum for a player who will turn 30 next year. Still, as comparisons go, Bayern Munich paid the same fee for Harry Kane at that age.

Fear the mighty Serhou! Guirassy & his National Elephants smash Somalia

Dortmund moved quickly last year when Guirassy scored 30 goals in as many games for Stuttgart, triggering his €18m release clause. The gamble has paid off spectacularly: since arriving, he has scored 38 goals and provided nine assists across the Bundesliga, Champions League and Club World Cup.

Flick was especially impressed during last season's Champions League quarter-final, when Guirassy netted a hat-trick against Barca in the second leg. It wasn't enough to turn the tie around, but it left a lasting impression.

You were hesistating to buy him for €17m, now the prize is €70m

For Barcelona, the need is clear. Robert Lewandowski, now 38, automatically extended his deal by meeting appearance clauses this season, but his contract expires next June. Planning for life after the legendary Pole has become a pressing matter - and Guirassy is firmly in their sights.