Hansi Flick Names His Top Two Barcelona Transfer Targets – Neither Leao Nor Salah

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has made his attacking reinforcements crystal clear ahead of the summer transfer window, with Athletic Club’s Nico Williams and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman emerging as his preferred targets – ruling out more expensive options like Rafael Leao and Mohamed Salah.

Flick’s Vision for Barcelona’s Attack

The German tactician is determined to add more dynamism, depth, and directness to Barcelona’s frontline. With Raphinha struggling for consistency and Ferran Torres failing to convince, Flick wants two explosive wingers who can transform the team’s attacking output.

Nico Williams: The Spanish Speedster

The 21-year-old Athletic Bilbao winger has been a revelation in La Liga this season, terrorizing defenses with his blistering pace, fearless dribbling, and relentless work rate. Flick sees Williams as the perfect fit for his high-octane system, offering the verticality and unpredictability Barcelona have often lacked.

Luis Díaz Initially Considered, Then Dropped

While Liverpool’s Luis Díaz was initially on Flick’s shortlist, reports from Marca suggest the Colombian has now been ruled out. Despite his Premier League pedigree, concerns over his consistency and Barcelona’s financial limitations have led the club to explore more affordable alternatives.

Ademola Lookman: The New Priority

Atalanta’s Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman has emerged as a surprise alternative. The 26-year-old has been in sensational form in Serie A, combining technical flair with end product. His strained relationship with manager Gian Piero Gasperini could facilitate a summer exit, making him an attainable target.

Why Not Leao or Salah?

AC Milan’s Rafael Leao and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah were both considered but deemed unrealistic. Leao’s €150 million release clause is beyond Barcelona’s reach, while Salah’s age (32) and wage demands don’t align with the club’s long-term project.

Raphinha’s Uncertain Future

The Brazilian winger, despite flashes of brilliance, has not convinced Flick that he can be a week-in, week-out difference-maker. While he may stay as a squad option, Barcelona are actively seeking an upgrade.

Ferran Torres on Thin Ice

Ferran Torres’ inconsistency has frustrated the coaching staff, and unless his form improves drastically, he could be sold to fund new signings.

Financial Challenges Remain

Barcelona’s well-documented financial issues mean they must be shrewd in the market. Both Williams and Lookman are seen as cost-effective solutions compared to marquee names like Leao.

Williams’ Release Clause: A Bargain?

Nico Williams has a €50 million release clause—a relative bargain for a player of his potential. Barcelona are hopeful they can structure a deal with installments to ease the financial burden.

Lookman’s Price Tag

Atalanta would demand around €40 million for Lookman, a fee Barcelona believe they can negotiate down given the player’s desire for a new challenge.

Competition for Signatures

Both players are in high demand. Arsenal and Chelsea are monitoring Williams, while Premier League clubs are also keen on Lookman. Barcelona will need to act decisively.

Flick’s Influence Key

The former Bayern Munich boss is personally involved in recruitment talks, emphasizing how crucial these signings are to his tactical blueprint.

A New Era for Barcelona’s Attack?

If successful, Williams and Lookman could form a devastating partnership with Lamine Yamal, offering Flick the pace and creativity he craves.

What Comes Next?

Barcelona’s hierarchy will now accelerate negotiations, hoping to secure at least one of their top targets before preseason.

Final Verdict

Flick’s clear vision for Barcelona’s rebuild is taking shape. With Williams and Lookman prioritized, the Blaugrana are signaling a shift towards younger, more dynamic attacking options—proving they’re planning for both the present and future.