Ademola Lookman: Roma target Nigeria and Atlético Madrid star – key details

Ademola Lookman could return to Italy, where he enjoyed the best spell of his career, just a year after leaving Atalanta for Atlético Madrid.

AS Roma are considering a move for the Super Eagles forward as his place in Diego Simeone’s team comes under threat ahead of the January transfer window.

Italian media reports suggest Roma have added the 29-year-old to their shortlist as sporting director Tony D’Amico looks to strengthen the club’s attack.

Lookman has struggled to hold down a regular starting place at Atlético and has fallen behind Álex Baena in Simeone’s attacking pecking order. He was also left on the bench for the entire match against Barcelona, the first time he had been an unused substitute this season.

The Nigerian has scored twice and provided one assist in 15 appearances across La Liga and the Champions League this season. He is yet to start a Champions League game in the current campaign.

Out-of-form Lookman has not asked to leave Atlético, but his lack of playing time could force him to consider a move if things do not improve.

He joined the Spanish club from Atalanta in February 2026 for an initial €35 million, with a further €5 million in potential bonuses. His contract runs until June 2030.

Gasperini reunion could tempt Ademola Lookman back to Italy

Roma’s interest, via Football Italia/Livescore, could see Ademola Lookman reunite with Gian Piero Gasperini, the manager who brought the best out of him during their time together at Atalanta.

Under Gasperini, Lookman scored 55 goals and provided 27 assists in 137 appearances between 2022 and 2026.

The highlight of their partnership came in the 2024 Europa League final, when Lookman scored all three goals in Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen to secure the club’s first major European trophy.

Gasperini could now turn to his former forward to add pace and goals to Roma’s attack. The Italian club are also keeping tabs on Real Madrid youngster Endrick as they consider their options for January.

However, signing Lookman will not be easy. Atlético are reluctant to lose both the Nigerian and Alexander Sørloth, who has attracted interest from Juventus. Reports suggest the Spanish club will only consider letting either forward leave after finding a replacement.

Lookman’s reported gross salary of €6 million a year, excluding bonuses, is another factor Roma must consider.

A return to Serie A could appeal to the Nigerian, but Roma will need Atlético’s cooperation to make the move happen.