La Liga
Atletico Madrid keeps an eye on an old target: Ademola Lookman, one of the main protagonists of Atalanta in Serie A. The Nigerian has been one of Atletico's targets this summer due to his impressive performance in Bergamo.
Lookman's price could skyrocket for Atletico
The club tried to secure his transfer last summer, but negotiations with the Italian club proved impossible due to the firm refusal of the Bergamo management. However, in the January transfer market, Atletico's interest is rekindling.
Lookman, a Nigerian international, has established himself as a dynamic forward with goal-scoring ability. His speed, dribbling, and attacking prowess make him a perfect fit for Diego Simeone's system, always in need of a player capable of breaking lines and providing offensive solutions. The Argentine coach sees him as a key piece to strengthen a forward line lacking consistent alternatives beyond Alvaro Morata and Antoine Griezmann.
The major obstacle will be the price. Atalanta is aware of the growing interest in their star and has made it clear they won't let him go at any cost. The transfer value could exceed 60 million euros, a significant sum for an Atletico facing economic difficulties. However, at the Metropolitano, they believe the investment could be worthwhile given his mature age and proven experience in leagues like the Premier League and Serie A.
Lookman's rise in Italy has been meteoric. Since joining Atalanta, the Nigerian winger has become an offensive reference, achieving notable goal-scoring figures and displaying a consistency he previously lacked at clubs like Leicester City or RB Leipzig. This growth has attracted several European teams' interest, but Atletico aims to preempt others and make a move in the winter market.
Furthermore, signing Lookman would send an ambitious message from the board to the fans. The Wanda Metropolitano has long been demanding top-tier reinforcements, and this move could be the final touch to keep the team competitive in the league and Champions League. Strengthening the wings is a priority as Simeone has stressed the need for more options in that area.
The outcome of this story will largely depend on Atalanta's willingness to negotiate and Atletico's ability to carry out such a substantial operation. For now, one thing is certain: Ademola Lookman's name is back in bold on the colchonero's agenda.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Atlético de Madrid volverá a intentar fichar a Lookman
