Barcelona submitted an opening offer to Bayern Munich in an effort to sign Robert Lewandowski, sources told Sam Marsden and Moises Llorens of ESPN.

However, the offer could get rejected, as it’s believed to be below Bayern Munich’s €40-million valuation.

Despite Lewandowski publicly expressing his desire to leave the German side after the 2021-22 season, Bayern officials have repeatedly insisted that they want the Polish striker to see out the remainder of his contract, which expires in June 2023.

“Robert has a contract with us for another year and we expect to see him on the first day of preseason in July,” Bayern CEO Oliver Kahn said during Sadio Mane’s unveiling Wednesday.

Bayern Munich officials have also cast doubt on Barcelona’s ability to complete such a deal given the Spanish club’s financial constraints.

Barcelona are prohibited from making new signings until they raise capital. The club plans to raise funds this summer through merchandising and television rights.

Lewandowski, who led the Bundesliga with 35 goals last season, has spent eight years in Munich but has repeatedly indicated he wants a fresh start. He said in May, “My story at Bayern is over.”

Meanwhile, Barcelona are reportedly also expected to launch a bid to sign Sevilla defender Jules Kounde with Barca boss Xavi Hernandez apparently eager to sign a proven center-back this summer.