Major surprise in the transfer market, FC Barcelona has set its sights on one of Sevilla FC's revelations this season. Barça seeks alternatives to strengthen the right wing and already has a name highlighted: Dodi Lukebakio. The Belgian winger is highly regarded by the sports management, and his profile perfectly fits what Hans Dieter Flick is looking for.
Fast, very powerful, and with great dribbling ability, Dodi Lukebakio has been one of the few positive notes for the Sevillian team in a challenging year. His fantastic performance hasn't gone unnoticed by the major LaLiga clubs, and Barça's technical secretariat is seriously considering his addition for the 2025-26 season.
Barça's idea is clear: to find a natural replacement for Raphinha, whose continuity isn't assured. The Brazilian has a market in the Premier League and Saudi Arabia, and his departure could finance part of the Lukebakio operation. According to sources close to the club, the operation would be around 30 million euros between fixed and variable amounts, a manageable figure within the new financial framework that President Joan Laporta is preparing.
Deco goes for the Belgian
The main supporter of the signing is Deco, Barcelona's sporting director sees Lukebakio as a differential player. He sees him with room for growth and with enough experience in major leagues to make an immediate leap in his performance. Additionally, his adaptation to Spanish soccer has been quick, which works in Barça's favor.
However, the competition won't be easy, Atlético Madrid is also closely following the Belgian striker. Diego Pablo Simeone needs dynamite on the wing and sees Lukebakio as a real alternative if a sale occurs in the offensive area. Meanwhile, Villarreal has also approached the player's entourage to understand his situation for the summer.
He wants a leap
At 27 years old, Lukebakio has proven to be a modern winger, not only contributing in attack but also working off the ball, pressing high, and understanding spaces. His versatility and tactical commitment are values that Deco considers essential for the club's new sports project. The Belgian is one of the key players for a Sevilla that has struggled a lot to avoid relegation, with Dodi Lukebakio scoring 11 goals in 37 matches.
Sevilla knows it will be difficult to retain him if significant offers arrive. His clause isn't prohibitive, and the player would be delighted to make the leap to a Champions team. Additionally, from the player's entourage, they don't see moving to Camp Nou unfavorably, where he could compete for titles and establish himself as one of the reference wingers in Europe.
The negotiation is open, and Laporta has already given the green light. Barça knows it can't miss a market opportunity like this. The option to sign Lukebakio for 30 million could be key to keeping the team competitive without compromising finances.