Barcelona’s loss, Athletic Bilbao’s gain: What is in it for Ademola Lookman?

Super Eagles attacker Ademola Lookman has been heavily linked with a transfer to Barcelona this summer, and seemed like the deal would no longer materialize as the club had other preferable options. However, following a recent development, something might still happen, Soccernet.ng reports.

Barcelona are looking to strengthen their squad after an impressive campaign with Hansi Flick last season that saw them win the LaLiga and the Copa Del Rey.

The Blaugrana's right-wing is very solid, as they have natural right wingers like Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. But they do not have a top natural left winger. As such, they have made it a priority to get one.

Super Eagles star Lookman has been heavily linked with the Catalunyan giants. But he is not the priority, as Nico Williams is the first choice, while Liverpool's Liverpool's Luis Diaz is the second option.

In the past week, there were strong reports from Spain that Barcelona were in serious talks with him over a possible deal. It seemed like the talks would yield results soon, but the transfer has fallen through.

This is as Athletic Bilbao announced that Nico Williams has signed a long-term contract extension that will keep him there until 2035 on Friday.

Nico Williams signs eight-year contract extension at Athletic Club, until 2035.

The red and white winger will stay the next ten seasons at the club of his heart and his release clause increase more than 50% over the previous one.#NicoWilliams2035 #AthleticWIN

— Athletic Club (@Athletic_en) July 4, 2025

With this, his value has increased significantly, and he can no longer join Barca, as his release clause has also increased.

What does this mean for Ademola Lookman?

With Nico Williams now firmly out of the picture, Barcelona will now likely turn their focus to Liverpool's Diaz.

However, the Reds are unwilling to let him leave, especially following the loss of Diogo Jota. Only a mega fee will make the Reds budge, and Barcelona do not have that.

This means that Ademola Lookman might become the main focus at Barcelona. His situation is quite straightforward, and he is not as expensive as Williams and Diaz.

Atalanta are willing to sell and will accept €60 million for the Super Eagles star. Lookman also has pretty low wages at the moment, so Barcelona will be able to reach an agreement with him.

Lookman has proven to be a quality player over the last three seasons at Atalanta. He also helps with defensive work, which means he and Balde would fit quite well on the right side of the pitch.

It will be a big move for the Super Eagles star if the transfer materialises.