Nigeria’s number 2 MVP on the radar of Nottingham Forest, Newcastle, and West Ham

Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United, and West Ham United are locked in a transfer battle for reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, ahead of the summer window, Footynaija.com reports.

According to Football Insider, the Atalanta forward is keen on a return to the Premier League, where he previously played for Everton, Leicester City, and Fulham.

His versatility — capable of operating across the frontline, as a central striker, or as a winger — makes him an attractive prospect for top-flight English clubs.

Lookman’s desire to leave Atalanta intensified after a reported fallout with manager Gian Piero Gasperini over a missed penalty in a Champions League clash against Club Brugge last month. Despite this, the Nigerian international has been instrumental in Atalanta’s success, scoring 50 goals in 110 appearances since joining from RB Leipzig in 2022.

Nottingham Forest are said to be leading the race, with Newcastle also making strong enquiries. West Ham, however, face an uphill battle, as they cannot offer Champions League football next season—a potential stumbling block in negotiations.

Forest, currently sitting third in the Premier League table with nine games to go, may have to shatter their transfer record to secure Lookman’s signature. The fee is expected to surpass the £35 million they paid Newcastle for Elliott Anderson.

Lookman is Nigeria’s second most valuable player at €60 million, behind Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen who has an estimated worth of €70 million, per Transfermarkt.