Former Napoli and Atalanta boss Bortolo Mutti has tipped Napoli to reclaim the Serie A title—if they manage to land Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman this summer, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigerian forward has emerged as a key transfer target for new Napoli manager Antonio Conte, who reportedly sees the 27-year-old as the perfect replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, following the Georgian’s high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain in January.
Lookman enjoyed a standout campaign last season, scoring 20 goals and providing seven assists in 40 appearances for Atalanta.
The Super Eagles star’s consistent impact since arriving from RB Leipzig has made him one of the most valuable attackers in Serie A.
While Atalanta are believed to be holding out for €60m, Napoli are hoping to reach a compromise closer to €50m.
Bortolo Mutti on Ademola Lookman
Mutti, who managed both clubs in the late 1990s, is hopeful Atalanta can resist the temptation to cash in — but admits that Lookman could be a decisive figure for Conte’s Napoli.
The veteran manager is convinced that Conte’s Napoli becomes the favourite to lift the Scudetto again should Lookman leave Bergamo for Naples.
Speaking to Radio Goal on Kiss Kiss Napoli via Calcio Napoli, Mutti said:
“Lookman is an immense footballer who is fun and makes you win matches. He always manages to invent the play, he is a fundamental piece for Atalanta.
“For Atalanta, losing Lookman means losing a lot, but I don’t see the reason why Percassi should put the player on the market, also because the balance sheets are absolutely positive.
“I hope Lookman doesn’t leave Atalanta. The left wing is his ideal area because he comes back on the right, but in today’s football it’s easy to find other solutions. The good ones for me are good everywhere.
“If Napoli takes Lookman and also Lucca then they would win the championship again.”
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Lookman’s ability to cut inside from the left flank and create goal-scoring opportunities has made him a nightmare for defenders and a fan favourite in Bergamo.
The Nigerian forward is considered a club legend in Atalanta after playing a crucial role as the club lifted the Europa League trophy for the first time in history last year.