Barcelona is preparing for a key offensive renewal ahead of next season. With the departure of several players on the table and the need to find reliable options in attack, especially on the wings, the sporting management is exploring the transfer market. Deco and company aim to find a guaranteed winger who can deliver immediate performance and compete with Raphinha for the position.
Hansi Flick has been clear since his arrival: he wants specific profiles that fit his playing model, and that's why he's given the green light to some very specific names. The priority is to bring in a winger with speed and dribbling skills, characteristics that have led Barça to consider different options in recent weeks. However, one of them has already been completely ruled out.
They remove him from the list
Ademola Lookman, one of Atalanta's standout figures this season, was an alternative that was strongly considered in the halls of Camp Nou. His performance in Serie A caught Deco's attention, but in the end, it was Hansi Flick who closed the door. The coach doesn't see him as a piece that can fit into his scheme as intended and has asked to focus on other options more aligned with his idea of play.
Besides the sporting aspect, the price has also worked against the Nigerian. Atalanta is demanding around €60 million (about $65 million), an amount Barça isn't willing to pay for a player who isn't at the top of its list. Instead, profiles like Nico Williams are prioritized, whose release clause is similar to the price set by Atalanta and who fits better in the culé project due to age and potential.
He sets his sights on Serie A
With Barça out of the equation, Lookman's future seems set to remain in Italy. Antonio Conte, Napoli's coach, has made the Nigerian one of his top targets to strengthen the left wing, and talks between both parties are already underway. The Neapolitan club could reach a figure close to €50 million (about $54 million) to close the deal.
Meanwhile, Barça keeps its roadmap unchanged. The goal is to sign a winger who not only brings a competitive level but also allows minutes to be distributed between Raphinha and Lamine without compromising the team's level. Lookman is no longer an option, and his name is no longer among the alternatives Deco is considering.