Ademola Lookman is expected to leave Atalanta at the end of the season, having informed the club’s hierarchy of his desire to seek new challenges.
The 2023/24 campaign was a breakout year for the Nigerian. He scored 17 goals and provided 10 assists in all competitions, playing a key role with a Final hat-trick in Atalanta’s historic UEFA Europa League triumph — their first ever European title.
His performances didn’t go unnoticed. He was named African Footballer of the Year in 2023, capping off what was undoubtedly the most successful year of his career.
This season, he has continued in top form, scoring 18 goals and registering seven assists across all competitions. It’s no surprise he’s now one of the most in-demand players in Europe.
Although his contract runs until the summer of 2025, Lookman has made up his mind to move on.
His relationship with Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini has deteriorated, especially after the 67-year-old publicly criticised him as “the worst penalty taker” following a missed spot-kick against Club Brugge in the Champions League.
That moment appeared to seal Lookman's decision to leave.
Now valued at around €60 million, the 27-year-old is attracting interest from top clubs, including Juventus and Liverpool.
Is Liverpool the right move for Ademola Lookman?
Liverpool manager, Arne Slot, is reportedly a big admirer of Lookman, and the club is said to be willing to pay €50 million to bring him to Anfield, a fee Atalanta that falls slightly short of Atalanta's current valuation.
On paper, the move looks appealing. Lookman has Premier League experience from his previous stints at Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City.
Although he didn’t quite hit top form in those years, he has since matured into one of Europe’s most dangerous wide forwards. His pace, dribbling, and ability to score and create make him a strong fit for Liverpool’s attacking system.
However, a closer look suggests this might not be the best move for him right now.
Mohamed Salah, 32, recently signed a new contract with Liverpool that runs until 2027. As long as Salah is fit, he will remain the first-choice right-winger and leading shot-taker.
At 27, Lookman is at the peak of his powers and can’t afford to become a rotation player or a second option. Sitting on the bench would stall his momentum and possibly undo the progress he has made over the past two seasons.
Liverpool are also expected to strengthen their attacking line this summer.
With competition for places expected to be fierce, there’s no clear path for Lookman to walk straight into the starting line up.
If the 27-year-old wants to continue growing and playing at the highest level consistently, he needs a club where he’s a guaranteed starter — like Juventus, who are reportedly on his heels, or a team that offers him both competitive football and regular minutes.
A return to England could still work, but it needs to be the right fit. Liverpool, at this point, might not be that place.
