Atalanta coach Ivan Juric has weighed in on Ademola Lookman’s transfer situation, amid links to Arsenal and Barcelona, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Eagles star is set to be out of contract at the end of next season, but there have been lot of talks about him leaving Atalanta since last season.
Last year, Lookman was linked to clubs like PSG, Arsenal, Manchester United, and a host of other clubs. But those talks did not materialize, as La Dea were adamant about keeping him.
However, it looks like Lookman will be on the move this summer. Recall that transfer expert Fabrizio Romano already called it during the debacle between the Super Eagles star and former Atalanta coach Gian Pero Gasperini.
Arsenal and Barcelona have been seriously linked with a move, but nothing concrete has emerged yet.
Meanwhile, Atalanta just appointed coach Juric following Gasperini’s department to AS Roman.
Juric had his first press conference as Atalanta coach on Monday, and when asked about Lookman’s transfer situation. The Croatian stated that he wants the Nigerian forward to stay at the club.
“Who would I like to keep between Ederson and Lookman? I’d say both of them,” Juric said, per Gianluca Di Marzio.
Why Ademola Lookman will leave Atalanta?
Ademola Lookman has been an important player for Atalanta over the last three years, contributing 52 goals and 25 assists in 118 games.
He was clutch in their UEFA Europa League triumph two seasons ago, becoming the first player to score a hattrick in the history of the competition. However, with top clubs showing interest in acquiring his services, Lookman’s head had been turned.
With all he has achieved in the last two years, he will be looking to join a club where he can win more silverware and play with better players.
For now, Lookman’s next move is not confirmed, but it seems likely that his Atalanta chapter will be closed soon.