German coach Hansi Flick arrived at Barcelona with a clear vision and well-defined ambitions. He is fully aware of the team’s weaknesses, but also understands the club’s complex financial situation. During meetings with sporting director Deco and other club officials, Flick delivered a definitive message: if only one signing can be made this summer, it must be for an attacking winger.
Flick’s pragmatism stems from his awareness of the financial constraints imposed by Financial Fair Play regulations, as well as the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the approval of a €100 million financing package linked to the VIP box. With doubts still lingering about a return to the “1:1” spending rule, the priority now is to maximize the efficiency of every available euro. In this context, Flick views strengthening the winger position as the most urgent necessity within his offensive system.
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According to the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, Barcelona’s technical staff is closely monitoring Nigerian player Ademola Lookman, who perfectly fits the coach’s criteria: speed, skill, the ability to make a difference in one-on-one situations, and a direct impact from the left wing.
Lookman, who has impressed this season with Atalanta, is an affordable option. His ability to play on both flanks adds tactical flexibility that Flick highly values. The German coach has made his stance clear: if there is only one reinforcement, it should be on the wing.
Despite increasing talk of defensive reinforcements, Flick has made it clear to Deco that defense is not a current priority. He is satisfied with the progress of youngster Coparsi, the experience of Iñigo Martínez, and the continued presence of Koundé and Eric García. Ronald Araújo also remains an important part of the squad, at least until his future is clarified.
With Lamine Yamal firmly established as a key player in the squad and Rafinha playing a vital role on the opposite side, Flick sees an urgent need to add a third winger capable of “breaking down defenses” to ensure rotation and tactical diversity—especially considering the pressure of fixtures and the risk of injuries.
The message from Flick to the board is clear: if there is only one opportunity in the transfer market, it must be for an attacking winger. Now, the responsibility lies with Deco to transform this technical vision into reality on the pitch.
