CONFIRMED: Ademola Lookman makes 'dream' transfer decision

Cameron Smith

24 Feb 2025 08:45 CST
3 min read

Ademola Lookman, Atalanta, 2024/25 — © IMAGO

Ademola Lookman has reportedly decided to leave Atalanta this summer following Gian Piero Gasperini’s recent comments.

The 27-year-old missed a crucial spot kick during Atalanta’s loss to Club Brugge in the Champions League knockout phase play-off round last week, with Gasperini calling him “one of the worst penalty takers” he has ever seen.

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Lookman subsequently described Gasperini’s quotes as “deeply disrespectful” and he will officially leave Atalanta when the 2025 summer transfer window opens, according to Sky Sport.

The Nigerian’s imminent exit has been dubbed as a “done deal” and he is reportedly hoping to secure a lucrative contract in the Saudi Pro League.

Lookman is “dreaming” of a move to Saudi Arabia and he is prepared to “seize” the opportunity to join the richest league in football if interest in his services arises.

Arsenal have also made enquiries over a possible summer deal, while Liverpool have identified him as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah and have already initiated contact with Lookman’s entourage.

In addition, Chelsea were linked with a move last year and they could rekindle their interest amid Mykhailo Mudryk’s provisional suspension for doping.

However, Lookman is reportedly aiming to join a Saudi Pro League team this summer and he could become the latest big-name star to secure a huge contract in the Middle East.

Ademola Lookman to leave Atalanta

The former Fulham and Everton forward has scored 17 goals and provided seven assists in 29 appearances across all competitions so far this season, while he won the African Footballer of the Year award in 2024 after netting a hat-trick in the Europa League final.

Lookman has less than 18 months remaining on his contract at Atalanta and his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently stands at a career high of €48.6 million.