The summer transfer window is heating up, and Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has emerged as one of the most sought-after names across Europe, Footynaija.com reports.
Barcelona are leading the charge in the pursuit of the Atalanta star, with sporting director Deco working tirelessly behind the scenes to make a deal happen.
The Spanish giants, still reeling from their failed bid to sign Nico Williams, are now exploring Lookman as a marquee signing who can add flair and firepower to their frontline, according to Tutto Atalanta.
Despite the player’s reported interest in a move to Camp Nou, the road ahead is far from smooth. Atalanta are holding firm on their €50 million valuation, and tensions between the Italian side and Lookman’s representatives — who also manage Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen — have added another layer of complexity to negotiations.
Barcelona have also ruled out other Serie A targets such as Rafael Leão, Dusan Vlahovic, and Kenan Yildiz, making Lookman the club’s most viable attacking option. An accelerated move from the Blaugrana in the coming weeks remains on the cards, but financial constraints may force Deco to get creative.
Meanwhile, the Premier League is buzzing with interest. Tottenham Hotspur, fresh off a frantic 24-hour spending spree that saw them land Mohammed Kudus and Morgan Gibbs-White for £115m, are eager to strengthen further.
New manager Thomas Frank views Lookman as a key addition to his squad, particularly for depth in wide forward areas. Spurs are ready to bid, but face competition from Newcastle, West Ham, Napoli and Arsenal, as per Caught Offside.
Mikel Arteta is a known admirer of Lookman and sees the versatile forward as a strong alternative to Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze. While Arsenal remain focused on Eze, the uncertainty surrounding that deal keeps Lookman firmly in their sights.
With his contract running until 2027, Atalanta are in no rush, but a decisive offer from any of his suitors could change the story.
The race for Lookman is on — and it’s shaping up to be one of the transfer sagas of the summer.