Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has found himself at the center of transfer speculation following an outstanding season with Italian side Atalanta, Footy-Africa has learned.
Despite being under contract until 2027 with Italian side Atalanta, the Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman has reportedly informed the club’s top brass of his desire to leave this summer.
Lookman, 27, played a key role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph in the 2023/24 season, scoring an unforgettable hat trick in the final as the Serie A club defeated Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen 3-0. That performance not only cemented his place in club history but also put him on the radar of several European heavyweights.
He stayed put with Atalanta but it seems he will be on the move this time out.
As the summer transfer window gathers momentum, reports have linked the former Everton man with a host of top clubs.
Arsenal, Manchester United, and Barcelona are said to be among those keeping close tabs on his situation.
Former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju, a member of Nigeria’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations-winning team, has shared his thoughts on Lookman’s next move. The former international believes Lookman’s form both at club and national level warrants a step-up.
“Of recent, Lookman has done very well for Atalanta and the national team, the Super Eagles, and I think if he continues with Atalanta it won’t be a bad thing,” Adepoju said exclusively for Footy-Africa. “But if he has to move, I would like to see him in a more bigger club either in La Liga or Premier League. He has done greatly and deserves to play in a bigger club and I believe he will make it anywhere.”
Although Lookman still has three years left on his contract, Adepoju believes a move now might be the right time for the winger to explore new challenges.
“Despite having a contract with them (Atalanta), I think the time is ripe for him to move to another league as I do not think he has anything else to prove in Italy,” he explained. “Lookman needs a new adventure to take him to the next level, and even if he remains with the Italian side, it will not be a bad idea. But I do not mind him seeking greener pastures elsewhere next season.”
In Serie A last season, Lookman featured in 31 matches, netting 15 goals and providing five assists in what has been his most productive campaign to date.
