Liverpool have reportedly made contact over a potential summer transfer for Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman as a possible replacement for Mohamed Salah, SportsLigue reports.

Liverpool Eye Lookman as Salah’s Successor

The Reds have reportedly taken concrete steps towards signing the Atalanta star, who has been in outstanding form this season. The 27-year-old Nigerian international has netted 17 goals and provided seven assists in 29 appearances across all competitions, making him a prime target for Jurgen Klopp’s side.

Arsenal Also Interested, but Liverpool Lead the Race

While Arsenal have also inquired about Lookman, Liverpool appear to be leading the charge. The Reds see Lookman as an ideal fit should Salah depart Anfield at the end of the season, with the Egyptian’s future remaining uncertain as his contract expires in 2025.

Saudi Pro League clubs, particularly Al-Ittihad, have been keen on securing Salah’s services, and a big-money move to Saudi Arabia could materialize this summer. Liverpool’s new sporting director Richard Hughes and incoming head coach Arne Slot are reportedly preparing contingency plans, with Lookman emerging as a top candidate.

Atalanta Open to Offers Amid Lookman’s Uncertain Future

Lookman’s situation at Atalanta has become increasingly uncertain following a public disagreement with Gian Piero Gasperini. The manager criticized the Nigerian forward after he missed a crucial penalty in their UEFA Champions League defeat to Club Brugge.

Reports suggest that Atalanta would be willing to part ways with Lookman if they receive an offer in the region of €65m (£53.8m). Several top European clubs are monitoring the situation closely, with interest growing across the Premier League and beyond.

Other Clubs Monitoring Lookman’s Availability

Liverpool are not the only Premier League club eyeing Lookman. Newcastle United and Manchester United have also entered the race for his signature. According to TEAMtalk, Newcastle have already sent scouts to watch the forward in action, impressed by his versatility to play as both a winger and central striker.

Beyond the Premier League, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, and Inter Milan are also keeping a close watch on Lookman’s future. PSG, in particular, had previously shown interest in the Nigerian international last summer.

Lookman’s Rise to Stardom

Since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022, Lookman has developed into one of Serie A’s most prolific attackers. He has racked up 49 goals and 23 assists in 107 appearances for the Italian club.

Lookman’s global stock soared last season when he netted a historic hat-trick in Atalanta’s Europa League final victory over Bayer Leverkusen. He followed that up by leading Nigeria to the AFCON 2024 final, a feat that earned him the CAF African Player of the Year award.

RELATED NEWS: How Ademola Lookman Became Africa’s Best Footballer After Choosing Nigeria

Could Lookman Return to the Premier League?

Lookman’s familiarity with English football could make him an attractive signing for Liverpool. The London-born forward began his Premier League career with Everton in 2017 before moving to RB Leipzig and having loan spells at Fulham and Leicester City. His pace, dribbling ability, and proven goal-scoring prowess make him a strong candidate to fill the void should Salah make a big-money move away from Anfield.

What Next for Liverpool and Lookman?

With Salah’s future hanging in the balance, Liverpool’s summer transfer strategy is already taking shape. If the Reds decide to part ways with their Egyptian talisman, Lookman could be a marquee signing to usher in a new attacking era at Anfield. For now, negotiations remain in the early stages, but expect Liverpool to ramp up their efforts in the coming weeks.

Stay tuned to Sportsligue for the latest updates on this developing transfer saga.

SportsLigue