Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has reportedly picked Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman as his primary transfer target for the Catalan club’s attacking reinforcement, ahead of Liverpool’s Luis Diaz. The Nigerian forward has been in outstanding form for Atalanta, contributing significantly to the Italian club’s success this season.
“Lookman has already informed Atalanta of his desire to leave the Bergamo club at the end of the season after submitting a formal transfer request,” according to Chroniclelive. The London-born star is said to be keen on a return to the Premier League, where he previously featured for Everton, Leicester City, and Fulham.
The African Player of the Year’s decision follows a high-profile and public disagreement with Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini over a penalty miss. While the pair appeared to have reconciled, recent reports suggest the forward is seeking a fresh start elsewhere.
Newcastle United and Manchester United have reportedly held preliminary talks with the player, who has one year remaining on his contract with Atalanta, which includes an option for the club to extend by an extra season.
Spanish media outlet Fichajes reported that Barcelona has already initiated contact with Lookman’s representatives, with Flick viewing him as a key potential addition to strengthen the club’s attacking options.
Despite Barcelona’s well-documented financial struggles, Flick is pushing for Lookman’s acquisition, though signing him could prove challenging as Atalanta values their prized asset at around €60-€70m. The Spanish giants are reportedly looking to structure a deal with spread payments, but Atalanta may be reluctant to agree to such terms.
Flick prefers Lookman’s style for Barcelona’s attacking system and hopes an agreement can be reached. With Lookman’s impressive form and Flick’s interest, a move to Barcelona could be on the cards for the Nigerian forward.