As European football clubs ramp up their preparations for the upcoming season, Barcelona appears to be working on an unexpected move to strengthen their attack. Under the guidance of new coach Hansi Flick, the club’s technical staff seems eager to make a decisive change in a vital attacking position.
While several high-profile players have been linked to the Catalan giants in recent weeks, there’s been a notable shift in strategy after Flick conducted a careful review of the team’s recent shortcomings.
Initially, expectations pointed toward Barcelona pursuing a major star to fill this role. However, in a surprising twist, Flick reportedly dismissed one of the club’s top transfer targets despite the player’s impressive market value, international experience, and ties to a top Premier League side. According to the Spanish outlet El Nacional, Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford failed to impress the German manager.
Flick is said to have reservations about Rashford’s inconsistent performances and fluctuating mentality, especially under the intense competitive and financial pressures currently surrounding Barcelona. Given the club’s delicate financial situation, making an expensive but risky signing could prove disastrous.
Instead, Flick has recommended a name few had considered: Nigerian international Ademola Lookman, who currently stars for Serie A side Atalanta. Flick reportedly views Lookman as a smarter and more reliable option, praising his tactical intelligence, versatility in multiple attacking roles, mental steadiness, and notable defensive work rate. Lookman enjoyed a remarkable season in Italy, becoming an essential part of Gian Piero Gasperini’s squad.
While Lookman’s estimated price tag of around €40 million is similar to other candidates, Flick considers this move far less risky, believing Lookman’s all-round game would perfectly complement his tactical blueprint for Barcelona.
Another factor working in Lookman’s favor is his grounded personality and ability to stay away from media controversies—qualities the Barcelona board reportedly values, as they prefer a player who can integrate smoothly alongside young star Lamine Yamal and Raphinha without causing dressing-room friction or unnecessary attention.
Though no final decision has been reached, it’s clear that Flick will ultimately decide which winger joins the squad this summer. The club’s leadership is quietly optimistic that this under-the-radar move could turn out to be one of the most valuable signings of the season, adding both quality and stability to Barcelona’s frontline.
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