Barcelona open transfer talks with Lookman as summer transfer heats up

• Barcelona have begun talks with Ademola Lookman’s representatives, showing their intent to secure the Atalanta forward in the summer transfer window
• Lookman had a stellar 2023/24 campaign, winning the African Player of the Year award and lifting the Europa League with Atalanta.
• The Nigerian international is in high demand, with Premier League giants Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool also monitoring his situation

Spanish giants Barcelona have set their sights on Atalanta’s star forward, Ademola Lookman, as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window. 

The Spanish giants have reportedly made initial contact with the Nigerian international’s representatives, marking the beginning of what could be one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of the upcoming window.

According to reports from top Spanish outlets, the Blaugrana have started preliminary discussions over a potential deal, with new head coach Hansi Flick identifying Lookman as a key piece in his plans for next season. 

Barcelona’s interest in the 27-year-old follows an outstanding 2023/24 campaign in which he won the African Player of the Year award and lifted the Europa League trophy with Atalanta.

Lookman’s stock has risen significantly this season, with the forward registering 13 goals and five assists in 23 Serie A appearances. 

His performances have not gone unnoticed, with several European clubs, especially from the Premier League, keeping a close eye on his situation. Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool have all reportedly shown interest in securing his signature.

While Barcelona are keen to lure him to Spain, the player himself is reportedly leaning towards a return to England, where he previously played for Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City. 

However, the opportunity to play in La Liga under a project led by Flick could be tempting. The Catalan club, currently leading the league standings, are looking to add quality reinforcements to maintain their dominance both domestically and in Europe.

Atalanta have reportedly placed a hefty €65 million (£54.2 million) valuation on Lookman, knowing well that his performances have made him one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe. Despite already having talented wingers like Raphinha, Barcelona remain eager to increase squad depth, especially with potential departures looming in the summer.

As negotiations remain in the early stages, Lookman’s next move is yet to be determined. However, Barcelona’s intent to bolster their squad is clear, and the Nigerian international could be one of the marquee signings of the summer transfer window.

Lookman’s strike not enough as Real Madrid edges Atalanta, Ancelotti praises team

Previously, TheRadar reported that Spanish giants Real Madrid reignited their UEFA Champions League campaign hopes with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Ademola Lookman’s Atalanta, overcoming an early injury to star forward Kylian Mbappé.

Lookman’s creativity nearly earned Atalanta a dramatic equaliser in injury time, but substitute Mateo Retegui squandered the golden opportunity, blasting over from six yards out.