Report: Barcelona take big step in Ademola Lookman pursuit

Spanish LaLiga giant Barcelona have contacted the agent of Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman over a potential transfer in the summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

Barcelona have been keeping tabs on Lookman as a potential signing in the summer as they look to bolster their attack ahead of next season.

The Super Eagles star is expected to leave Atalanta summer, and he has already attracted a lot of attention, and that is not a surprise, as he has contributed 50 goals and 24 assists in 115 appearances.

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To get Lookman, Barcelona would have to outdo Juventus, Arsenal, Manchester United, Atletico Madrid, and Nottingham Forest who are also interested in acquiring his services. Liverpool have also been reported to be in the mix.

Now, in a new development per Caught Offside, the Blaugrana have made a vital step to sign Lookman. Barcelona have contacted Lookman's agent for a possible deal in the summer.

Can Barcelona land Ademola Lookman?

The Super Eagles star has a release clause of €60 million at Atalanta, and with the way that Barcelona have conducted their business for the last two years, they could still eke out the fee despite their financial challenges.

However, the wages could be the issue. Ademola Lookman currently earns just over €2 million per year at Atalanta. Currently, only four players make more than that at Barcelona. And the Spanish champions will be careful to keep their wage structure intact.

This might be an issue, as the other English clubs looking at Lookman could easily double or triple his wages. Moreover, since the 27-year-old grew up and played in England previously, he could have to favour a return there.