Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has reportedly identified Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman as his preferred transfer target over Liverpool’s Luis Díaz, as the Catalan club looks to reinforce its attack ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.
Barcelona’s attacking options have been a topic of discussion in recent months, with Flick keen on bringing in dynamic players who can fit into his tactical setup. The former Bayern Munich coach sees Lookman as a perfect addition due to his pace, dribbling ability, and versatility in the final third.
Lookman, 27, has been a standout performer for Atalanta since joining the Serie A club. Over the course of 111 appearances across all competitions, he has contributed significantly to the team’s attacking output, scoring 50 goals and providing 22 assists.
His impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, with several top European clubs expressing interest in signing him. Barcelona’s arch-rival, Liverpool, has also been monitoring the Nigerian winger, but recent reports suggest that Flick has prioritized Lookman over the Reds’ Colombian star, Díaz.
Last summer, Lookman was heavily linked with a move away from Atalanta, with Paris Saint-Germain showing strong interest in securing his services. However, a deal never materialized, and he remained with the Italian side for another season.
With Barcelona now actively searching for reinforcements, Flick believes Lookman’s direct playing style and ability to take on defenders one-on-one would make him an ideal fit for the Blaugrana’s system. The German coach is eager to add more speed and attacking threat to the wings, making Lookman a prime candidate for the role.
However, Barcelona’s well-documented financial difficulties could pose a significant challenge in securing Lookman’s signature. The Nigerian international is currently valued between €60 million and €70 million, and Atalanta is unlikely to accept a staggered payment structure—a financial model that Barcelona has frequently used in recent years due to budget constraints.
Despite these obstacles, negotiations between the two clubs could still reach a positive conclusion if Barcelona finds a viable way to fund the transfer. Lookman’s contract situation at Atalanta and the club’s willingness to negotiate will play crucial roles in determining whether the deal goes through.
Aside from Barcelona, Lookman has also been linked with a potential return to the Premier League. Arsenal has reportedly shown interest in bringing him back to England, but given his past experiences in the league with clubs like Everton and Leicester City, some analysts believe a move to La Liga could provide him with a fresh start in a tactical setup that better suits his playing style.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Lookman’s future remains uncertain. However, if Flick gets his way, Barcelona could soon be welcoming the Nigerian forward as a key addition to their squad.