Sir Jim Ratcliffe Reportedly Vetoes Manchester United Interest in Robert Lewandowski Despite Ruben Amorim’s Approval
Story: Written by Joseph October 27,2025
Manchester United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has allegedly halted a proposed move for Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski, despite the forward being highly rated by manager Ruben Amorim.
Lewandowski’s current deal with Barcelona expires next summer, generating significant speculation about his future. The 37-year-old has been linked to several clubs, including Manchester United, who are expected to strengthen their forward line in 2025.
United Assess Striker Options Ahead of Summer Window
The club invested heavily in Benjamin Sesko during the recent transfer period. The young Slovenian has already scored twice this season, though he is still adjusting to the demands of the Premier League.
United are likely to recruit another striker, with Joshua Zirkzee expected to depart and Rasmus Hojlund’s loan to Napoli becoming permanent at the end of the campaign.
Reports from The Mirror suggest that Amorim views Lewandowski as an ideal short-term mentor for Sesko. Ratcliffe, however, has intervened to block negotiations.
Ratcliffe Focused on Ending “Short-Term Big-Money Mistakes”
Ratcliffe is reportedly determined to avoid past errors where United committed significant finances to ageing stars.
Examples cited include:
- Edinson Cavani
- Bastian Schweinsteiger
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Casemiro, currently earning over £300,000 a week
Lewandowski is believed to be earning above £500,000 per week at Barcelona, and he would reportedly demand a comparable salary if he moved as a free agent.
With the Polish forward also dealing with an early-season muscle injury, Ratcliffe is considered unwilling to authorise a deal that carries high financial and physical risk.
Barcelona clearly missed his presence in their recent 2-1 El Clasico loss to Real Madrid.
Could Lewandowski Still Suit Manchester United?
Lewandowski’s pedigree is unquestionable:
- 103 goals in 187 matches for Borussia Dortmund
- 344 goals in 375 appearances for Bayern Munich
- 105 goals in 156 games since joining Barcelona
- 4 goals in 9 matches so far this season
His finishing, leadership, and elite positioning could greatly benefit Sesko’s development, making him an appealing target from a sporting perspective.
However, unless the striker drastically reduces his wage expectations, financial logic appears to outweigh Amorim’s interest. The offer of lucrative contracts from Saudi clubs further lowers the likelihood of a compromise.
