Ademola Lookman’s renaissance in Italy could soon lead him to Spain, with Atlético Madrid reportedly leading the race to sign the Super Eagles forward this summer.
The reigning CAF Player of the Year has caught the attention of several top European clubs following a blistering campaign with Atalanta.
Lookman has racked up 18 goals and seven assists in 37 appearances across all competitions this season, helping Gian Piero Gasperini’s side stay competitive on multiple fronts.
Despite being under contract in Bergamo until 2027, the 27-year-old is expected to be on the move, with Atalanta said to be open to a sale if their €60 million valuation is met.
Atlético have opened early talks with his representatives, and although they consider the fee steep, the Spanish giants view Lookman as a key piece in their summer rebuild.
Ademola Lookman in demand as Griezmann succession plan kicks off
With Antoine Griezmann nearing the twilight of his Atlético career and increasingly linked with a move to Major League Soccer, Diego Simeone’s side are keen to find a successor capable of delivering consistent end-product and working in tandem with Julián Álvarez, who has had a brilliant first season with the club.
Lookman’s name has emerged at the top of their shortlist. His form in Italy, 50 goals and 22 assists in 110 games since joining from RB Leipzig in 2022 has banished memories of a stop-start stint in England, where he struggled to make an impact at Everton, Fulham, and Leicester.
Atlético face stiff competition from the Premier League, where Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham, Aston Villa, and Newcastle are all monitoring developments. Barcelona have also been linked, but financial constraints could scupper their pursuit.
