Spanish giants Atletico Madrid have reportedly joined the race to sign Nigeria international Ademola Lookman, who has emerged as a hot transfer target following his sensational form for both Atalanta and the Super Eagles.
Lookman, who contributed 13 goals for Nigeria—8 goals and 5 assists—has already attracted interest from Arsenal this summer.
However, Atletico are now weighing a move for the former Everton player, especially after completing the signing of Matteo Ruggeri from Atalanta.
The 27-year-old forward was instrumental in Atalanta’s historic UEFA Europa League triumph last season, notably scoring a memorable hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.
His performances have piqued the interest of many top European teams, with many of them monitoring his situation.
While Arsenal have revived negotiations and are reportedly unfazed by Atalanta’s €50 million valuation, Atletico Madrid are not backing down either, especially as they look to bolster their attacking options for the upcoming campaign.
Iwobi and Uche Also On Atletico’s Radar
Earlier reports from Africa Foot linked Alex Iwobi with a move to the Spanish capital after the Fulham midfielder racked up 10 goals and 6 assists in the Premier League last season.
Soccernet.ng understands that the 29-year-old is open to the idea of moving to Spain, but Fulham are unwilling to part ways with one of their most consistent performers.
Christantus Uche, who impressed at the recent Unity Cup under the guidance of Eric Chelle, is also said to be on Atletico’s wider radar. However, no formal talks have been initiated with the player or his representatives.
Mutiu Adepoju Weighs In On Lookman’s Transfer
Reacting to the transfer speculation in an earlier report by Soccernet.ng, former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju, who featured for Real Sociedad during his time in Spain, believes Lookman has outgrown Atalanta and deserves a move to a more prominent club.
“Of recent, Lookman has done very well for Atalanta and the national team, the Super Eagles,” Adepoju told Footy Africa.
“If he continues with Atalanta, it won’t be a bad thing. But if he has to move, I would like to see him in a bigger club, either in La Liga or the Premier League. He has done greatly and deserves to play in a bigger club — and I believe he will make it anywhere.”
As the summer transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on Lookman, whose next move could shape the trajectory of his club and international career. Whether he ends up in England or Spain remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his stock has never been higher.