Chelsea a better destination for Ademola Lookman, says AFCON 2013 hero

Former Nigeria international Sunday Mba has urged Chelsea to consider signing his compatriot Ademola Lookman who will most likely be available for sale in the upcoming summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

Mba, who scored the first and only goal against Burkina Faso to hand Nigeria their third Africa Cup of Nations title in 2013, insists that the Atalanta forward would perfectly fit Enzo Maresca’s system.

Lookman played a key role in Nigeria’s run to the AFCON 2023 final, and has been in impressive form for Atalanta, scoring 12 goals and providing five assists in the 2024-25 season.

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Without a doubt, his performances have caught the attention of several top clubs, and Mba believes Chelsea should be his next destination.

Speaking to Africafoot, the former AFCON hero explained why the Premier League giants should push for Lookman’s signature.

“If I was a sporting director or manager at Chelsea, I would push for Lookman. I think it would be a win-win situation for both parties, given the nature of the player.

“Chelsea should be Lookman’s next home because the style of play suits what Enzo Maresca looks for in his strikers. He’s fast, technically gifted, can dribble, create chances and score a lot of goals. With all due respect, most Chelsea strikers struggle to bring out two of those qualities.” Said the former Enyimba player.

Mba further compared Lookman’s abilities to Chelsea’s current squad and revealed that only Cole Palmer could match the Nigerian’s level.

“Again, with all due respect, he is better than any other Chelsea player, with the possible exception of Cole Palmer. Lookman fits perfectly into this team and will be an instant hit. Chelsea would also improve massively in the final third, but with his contract, it wouldn’t cost them much.” he added.

Lookman has been previously linked with a move to the Premier League, but it remains to be seen if Chelsea will make a move for the Nigerian forward in the upcoming transfer window.