Real Madrid have declined the opportunity to sign Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman from Atalanta this summer, despite intermediaries presenting the 27-year-old as a potential addition to the squad, Footynaija.com understands.
According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, representatives offered Lookman to the reigning La Liga champions, but club president Florentino Perez opted against pursuing the move.
Lookman’s career has taken a remarkable turn since his arrival at Atalanta from RB Leipzig in August 2022.
The London-born attacker, once overlooked after his days in the Charlton Athletic youth system, has flourished in Italy’s top flight.
Over the past two and a half years, he has evolved into one of the league’s most potent offensive threats.
Ademola Lookman (27) has a clear priority this summer… to leave Atalanta!
He dreams of joining Barcelona. PSG are also monitoring his situation closely, reports @mundodeportivo. pic.twitter.com/eViAHt8jdp
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) March 23, 2025
In the last 12 months, Lookman played a key role in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph in the 2023/24 season and won the Africa Footballer of the Year award. This season, he has been particularly impressive, contributing 25 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions, with 18 goals and seven assists to his name.
Despite his impressive form, Real Madrid appear content with their current attacking resources.
While the club has often been linked with adding versatility to its forward line – especially given the over-dependence on stars such as Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Kylian Mbappe – Perez maintains that the Merengues have a well-stocked offensive unit. The decision to bypass Lookman suggests that the Spanish giants are focused on other strategic priorities ahead of the summer transfer window.
Chelsea and Liverpool are prepared to make a bid of around €75m to sign Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman this summer.
(Source: Fichajes) pic.twitter.com/Iv8lDCyQ5o
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) March 24, 2025
Lookman’s progress has not gone unnoticed, with several high-profile clubs across Europe reportedly interested in his services.
Nonetheless, for now, Real Madrid have opted not to make a move for the in-form attacker, leaving the door open for other suitors to capitalise on his rising stock.