Ademola Lookman’s scintillating form for Atalanta has ignited a firestorm of interest from Europe’s elite clubs, but the Italian club’s president, Antonio Percassi, remains resolute in his stance: Lookman is not for sale. Percassi’s declaration comes amidst a backdrop of swirling transfer rumors, with the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Real Madrid reportedly vying for the Nigerian forward’s signature. Lookman’s recent performances, including a dramatic stoppage-time winner against AC Milan, have only served to intensify the speculation, showcasing the very qualities that have made him one of the continent’s most coveted players. His eight goals and four assists in just 12 Serie A appearances this season, complemented by his overall tally of 10 goals and five assists in 17 games across all competitions, paint a vivid picture of a player in his prime.
Atalanta, aware of the growing interest in their star player, are not passively observing the unfolding drama. They are proactively working to secure Lookman’s long-term future in Bergamo, with contract extension talks already underway. The proposed new deal is expected to include a significant salary increase, a clear indication of Atalanta’s commitment to retaining the services of a player they view as integral to their ambitions. Percassi’s public declaration of intent further solidifies Atalanta’s position, sending a clear message to potential suitors that Lookman is not a commodity to be traded in the upcoming January transfer window. The club’s ambition is clear: to challenge for the Serie A title and make a significant impact in the Champions League, and they see Lookman as a key figure in achieving those goals.
Lookman’s journey to becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards has been nothing short of remarkable. Since his €15 million transfer to Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022, his trajectory has been consistently upward. His debut season in Italy saw him make an immediate impact, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess and creative abilities. He concluded the season with an impressive 13 goals and six assists in Serie A, establishing himself as a vital component of Atalanta’s attacking machinery. However, it was his performance in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen that truly etched his name into the annals of football history. His historic hat-trick, a first in a European Cup final, served as a testament to his exceptional talent and solidified his place among the game’s elite.
The 2023-24 season has witnessed Lookman elevate his game to even greater heights. He has seamlessly transitioned into a leadership role within the Atalanta squad, inspiring his teammates with his performances and driving the team toward success. His contributions have been instrumental in Atalanta’s impressive start to the season, both domestically and in Europe. Their challenge for the Serie A title, currently sitting just behind Napoli, is a testament to their collective efforts, with Lookman playing a pivotal role in their charge towards the summit. His consistent performances have not gone unnoticed, garnering him recognition on the global stage. His 14th-place finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings underscores his growing stature within the football world. Furthermore, his nominations for the prestigious CAF Men’s Player of the Year and the Globe Soccer Awards’ Best Men’s Player further solidify his status as one of the game’s brightest stars.
Lookman’s value in the transfer market has skyrocketed in tandem with his on-field performances. Atalanta are reportedly valuing him in the region of €60-€70 million, a figure that reflects his importance to the club and his potential to become one of the world’s best forwards. While clubs like PSG and Manchester United are believed to consider this price tag justifiable given Lookman’s talent and potential, Atalanta’s stance remains firm: he is not for sale. The club’s ambition is to build a team capable of challenging for major honors, and they see Lookman as a cornerstone of that project. They believe that his continued presence in Bergamo will be crucial to achieving their long-term objectives.
The January transfer window promises to be a period of intense speculation surrounding Lookman’s future. While the allure of playing for some of the biggest clubs in the world is undeniable, Lookman appears content and focused on his current situation at Atalanta. His recent comments suggest a desire to remain with the club, at least until the end of the season, emphasizing the importance of team unity and their collective goals. His commitment to the club’s project, coupled with Atalanta’s determination to retain his services, indicates that a move in January is highly unlikely. The saga surrounding Lookman’s future is likely to continue, but for now, he remains an integral part of Atalanta’s exciting journey, both in Serie A and on the European stage. His performances will undoubtedly be under intense scrutiny as he continues to write his remarkable football story.
