Football: Nigerian Striker Ademola Lookman to Move to Spain?
by Geoffrey Ejiga | by Geoffrey Ejiga
Spanish Clubs Eye Atalanta's Talismanic Forward
Ademola Lookman has been on the radar of many clubs since he joined the Serie A side. However, a lengthy contract discouraged many clubs who felt they would need a big-money move to bring the Nigerian forward to La Liga. However, with only two years left on his contract, Spanish giants Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have shown interest in signing the left winger. Inter Milan is also among the top clubs that are keen to recruit Lookman's services in the 25/26 season.
Could Lookman be the Solution to Barca's Left-Wing Problem?
Lookman's links to Barcelona come as no surprise, as the club desperately seeks to sign a left winger. After the unfortunate passing of Diogo Jota, Liverpool is now much firmer on its decision to not sell Luiz Diaz. Barcelona's plan to sign Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao also failed as the 23-year-old signed a 10-year contract, extending his time at the club to 2035.
With Hansi Flick short of options, Barcelona has now identified Ademola Lookman and Marcus Rashford as prime targets. Hansi Flick has already asked his scouting agents to keep an eye on Lookman with a view to bringing the star player to his squad. Could Lookmak help Barcelona retain the league title this season? See our upcoming La Liga predictions for more insight.
Some have questioned how the German coach intends to include Lookman in his plans, considering the excellent season that Raphinha has had. However, Lookman is a skilled player who can be deployed on both wings as well as upfront.
Aside from putting pressure on Raphinha, he could also be key in changing formations against tricky opponents or helping to provide support to the aging Lewandowski upfront. Lookman could also be a crucial addition to Hansi Flick’s goal machine, which relies on high lines, quick pressing, and strong intensity. After scoring 20 goals and securing six assists in the past season, many agree that he could be a wonderful addition to Hansi Flick’s high-scoring side.
Barcelona would look to challenge on all fronts in the coming season, an ambition that would require a robust squad that can handle fatigue and injuries, especially towards the tail end of the season. Ademola could be a crucial addition that can help Flick's squad rotation plans.
He could also replace any of the star forwards in the case of an injury scare, as the two-footed forward has both an eye for goal and for creating opportunities for his teammates. No doubt, Hansi Flick's free-flowing attacking system will be the perfect environment to help Lookman return to his high-flying performances that led Atalanta to a Europa League title in 2024.
Could Lookman Remain in Italy?
On July 18, 2025, Fabrizio Romano revealed that Ademola Lookman had agreed on personal terms with Inter Milan, who are keen to bring his services to the club. However, Atalanta has set an asking price above £40 million, a figure that might be too high for Inter Milan.
While the Nerazzuri may look to add a player in their offer for Lookman, there are strong doubts that Atalanta would be open to such a deal. If talks between both clubs break down, then Ademola Lookman may well be on his way to Spain.
