Transfer Watch: Atalanta demand £51m for Ademola Lookman amid Liverpool Interest
Nigerian star forward Ademola Lookman could be on his way out of Serie A side Atalanta BC, with the Italian club setting a firm asking price of £51 million for the reigning CAF African Footballer of the Year.
Liverpool Lead the Race for Lookman
According to Italian publication Corriere dello Sport, Premier League giants Liverpool are currently leading the chase for Lookman’s signature. The Merseyside club is reportedly eager to strengthen its attacking options in the upcoming summer transfer window, despite a solid run in the English Premier League this season.
“Then a sale would be inevitable,” Corriere dello Sport stressed, referring to Atalanta’s willingness to sanction the move if their valuation is met.
Premier League Return on the Cards?
Lookman, 27, has previously played in the Premier League for Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City — a background that could make a return to English football particularly enticing. His successful stint in Italy has elevated his profile, but sources at Sportsligue confirm that the Nigerian international has formally requested a transfer and notified the club of his decision to leave at the end of the season.
In addition to Liverpool, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa — both chasing UEFA Champions League qualification — are monitoring his situation closely. Italian giants Juventus have also shown interest in the forward.
From €10m Bargain to £51m Star
Signed by Atalanta in the summer of 2022 for just €10 million, Lookman has transformed into a world-class asset. He etched his name into club history with a sensational hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Europa League final, delivering Atalanta's first-ever European title. That performance helped him secure the CAF African Player of the Year award in December 2024, beating top contenders including Victor Osimhen and Mohamed Salah.
Fallout With Gasperini Sparks Exit
Reports suggest the forward’s desire to leave also stems from a well-documented fallout with Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini. Tensions flared after a missed penalty led to a heated exchange, and although both parties seemed to reconcile, Lookman now seeks a fresh start elsewhere.
With 18 goals and 7 assists across all competitions this season, Lookman remains one of the most productive African players in Europe. His potential return to the Premier League will be closely watched by fans, scouts, and analysts.
SportsLigue