Barcelona are reportedly preparing a significant bid for Liverpool winger Luis Díaz at the end of the season, but may be overlooking a more obvious fit in Ademola Lookman.
Díaz, who turned 28 earlier this month, has been a key player for Liverpool this term, featuring in 27 matches across all competitions. He has scored 12 goals and registered three assists in what has been a strong individual campaign.
According to Colombian outlet Antena 2 (h/t SPORT), the Catalan giants are willing to pay up to €70 million to land their man but, despite his solid contributions, the Colombia international's suitability for Barcelona’s style and future plans have been questioned.
Why Lookman is a better fit for Barcelona
The Nigeria international has been in scintillating form, registering nine goals and five assists in just 17 Serie A appearances this season.
In five Champions League games, he has scored three goals and assisted one, earning two Man of the Match awards.
Lookman’s exceptional performances have not gone unnoticed. Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, and youth team coordinator, Bojan Krkić, were reportedly in attendance at the 2024 Europa League final where Lookman was the show's star. His blend of creativity, pace, and versatility would make him a seamless fit for Barcelona’s system.
Lookman is clearly an upgrade on Diaz, considering he even outscored him 11 to 8 in their respective leagues last season (2023/2024 season) and five to three in the Europa League.
When juxtaposed, the Super Eagles forward’s output eclipses Díaz’s contributions.
Lookman: A player tailored for Barça’s philosophy
The Charlton Athletic product’s attributes align seamlessly with Barcelona’s tactical identity. His exceptional dribbling, vision, and ability to play on either flank or as a central false nine make him an invaluable asset.
Unlike Díaz, who thrives as a direct runner, Lookman combines relentless goal-scoring with creativity.
For a team looking to build around emerging talents like Lamine Yamal, Lookman’s adaptability offers an intriguing complement. The Nigerian international can operate on the left, freeing up Yamal to dominate the right flank.
Furthermore, Lookman’s tactical intelligence and technical ability make him a viable option to play centrally, offering much-needed respite for the aging Robert Lewandowski.
Lookman’s career trajectory further strengthens his case.
His numbers across the last two seasons highlight Lookman’s ability to deliver in high-pressure situations and underline his pedigree as a game-changer.
His combination of goals, assists, and creative output make him a natural fit for a club like Barcelona, where productivity and adaptability are key.
Spending €70 million on a player who offers less versatility and slightly lower output would represent a questionable investment, particularly given the club’s financial constraints.
