Barcelona continues its search for a winger with speed, dribbling ability, and the ability to get behind the defense to compete and improve Hansi Flick’s attack. The favorite was Nico Williams, who once again snubbed the Catalan club, forcing them to reopen the casting call. Beyond Luis Díaz and Rashford, a name that was already on Barcelona’s radar in the past has resurfaced: Ademola Lookman.
The need for a left winger
There is a clear priority in the transfer market for the Azulgrana, agreed upon by Deco and the German coach, which is to sign a left winger. The winger has been on the list since last summer and, with several candidates on the horizon, they hope to seal the deal in the coming weeks. Barça needs a player who is more capable of opening up the field and getting past opponents with skill in one-on-one situations and with speed and power, but also when static.
Luis Díaz and Rashford remain the leading candidates
Nico Williams’ decision to stay at Athletic and not sign for FC Barcelona was mainly due to the financial problems that the Catalan club has been facing for another year in the transfer market, which did not guarantee his registration. His non-signing has reopened the door for Luis Díaz and Marcus Rashford, who have been on Barça’s agenda for months.
In the case of the Colombian, the signing is not likely to be easy. First of all, Liverpool does not want to let him go, and Luis Díaz has played with the offers he has to get a better deal. If that does not work out, the English club wants more than $70 million to let the player leave.
In addition, Bayern Munich is also in the equation and is willing to pay that amount for the striker. Although the Colombian is Deco’s favorite, Marcus Rashford has always been an option, whose signing would be much easier for the club. On the one hand, the player has stated on multiple occasions that he wants to wear the Barcelona jersey and is even willing to take a considerable pay cut.
In addition, Manchester United wants to sell him and has set his asking price at around €48 million. There has even been speculation that, with the savings on his salary, they would be willing to let him go on loan.
Ademola Lookman returns to the scene
In the search for the perfect winger, a name has resurfaced on the Blaugrana agenda. Ademola Lookman (27) wants to leave Atalanta this summer. According to information gathered by Corriere di Bergamo, the striker is very tempted by the golden opportunity to join the Catalan club and is prioritizing this option over other offers on the table. He is a player that Flick likes and has a starting price of around €50 million.
For the time being, Barcelona is not going to make a move as it considers this to be a vital signing and wants to take its time in making a decision. They are in no rush and are also waiting for some players to leave to make room. A long negotiation is expected and a signing is not imminent.