Ademola Lookman, the 26-year-old Nigerian winger currently plying his trade at Atalanta BC, has emerged as a prime target for Premier League giants Chelsea and Liverpool. Following a stellar season punctuated by a historic hat-trick in Atalanta’s Europa League final triumph over Bayer Leverkusen and a consistent string of impressive performances, Lookman has garnered significant interest from top-tier clubs. His current contract with Atalanta runs until 2026, with an option for a one-year extension, but a reported rift with coach Gian Gasperini has ignited speculation about a potential summer transfer. Both Chelsea and Liverpool are reportedly prepared to table substantial bids in the region of €75 million (£63.2 million) to secure his services. This hefty sum would be difficult for Atalanta to refuse, even if they were to activate the extension clause, given Lookman’s apparent reluctance to commit to a new long-term deal.
Lookman’s prolific form has seen him rack up impressive numbers, registering 18 goals and 7 assists in 32 appearances across all competitions this season. His overall contribution to Atalanta since joining from RB Leipzig in 2022 for a relatively modest €9.4 million (£7.9 million) has been exceptional, with a tally of 50 goals and 22 assists in 110 matches. This potential transfer represents a significant return on investment for Atalanta, highlighting Lookman’s rapid development and impactful performances. A return to the Premier League, where he previously featured for Fulham, is believed to be Lookman’s preferred destination should he decide to part ways with the Italian club.
The appeal of Lookman to both Liverpool and Chelsea lies in his versatility and proven goal-scoring ability. Capable of operating effectively across the front line as a right winger, left winger, second striker, or even as a centre-forward, Lookman offers tactical flexibility and attacking depth. For Liverpool, his arrival could address potential departures in their attacking ranks. With Mohamed Salah’s contract situation unresolved and rumors swirling about the futures of Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, and Darwin Nunez, Lookman could provide cover and competition across multiple positions, ensuring a potent attacking force for Jurgen Klopp.
Chelsea, too, could benefit from Lookman’s presence. While their attacking lineup boasts considerable talent, departures are anticipated, and Lookman’s arrival would inject fresh impetus and provide manager Mauricio Pochettino with another dynamic option. His versatility allows him to seamlessly integrate into various tactical setups, offering valuable cover and competition for existing players. Lookman’s proven ability to deliver goals and assists makes him an attractive prospect for both clubs, who are looking to bolster their attacking prowess.
Atalanta, despite their likely reluctance to lose a key player, would find it difficult to rebuff such a lucrative offer, especially considering the apparent breakdown in the player-coach relationship. The reported €75 million transfer fee would represent a significant financial boost for the Italian club, allowing them to reinvest in their squad and pursue alternative targets. While losing a player of Lookman’s calibre would undoubtedly be a blow, the financial implications of the transfer could ultimately benefit Atalanta in the long run.
This potential transfer saga underlines the dynamism of the football market, where outstanding performances can quickly elevate a player’s status and attract interest from the world’s biggest clubs. For Lookman, a return to the Premier League represents a chance to showcase his talent on a bigger stage and compete at the highest level. For Liverpool and Chelsea, securing his signature would signify a significant coup, adding a proven goal-scorer and versatile attacker to their ranks. And for Atalanta, while losing a key player is never ideal, the potential financial windfall provides an opportunity to strategically reinvest and reshape their squad for future success. The coming weeks will determine the final outcome of this transfer saga, which promises to be one of the summer’s most intriguing storylines.
