Atalanta manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, has hailed club scout, Lee Congerton, for facilitating the transfer of Nigeria international, Ademola Lookman, to the club.

Lookman joined the Italians in the summer from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig after a successful loan spell at Premier League Leicester City. The Foxes failed to pick the option to sign the Nigeria international on a permanent deal leaving the door open for Atalanta to swoop in.

Atalanta Chief Scout Congerton who worked with Lookman at Leicester suggested the Nigerian to the Italians who splashed €9m on the pacy forward.

He has since repaid the faith placed on him by the Italian side scoring 13 goals in 19 games across all competitions with 11 of his 13 goals coming in the Italian Serie A where he’s only been outscored by his Super Eagles teammate Victor Osimhen who has found the back of the net 13 times in 15 appearances.

Lookman once again proved his worth, scoring a brace and providing an assist as La Dea held on for a 3-3 draw away at Juventus on Sunday. Speaking after the game, Gasperini said he’s been impressed with the club’s summer signings including 19-year-old Danish footballer Rasmus Højlund.

Højlund who joined for €17m has scored five goals in 16 appearances this season.

“This new director, the responsible for scouting, Lee Congerton spotted these players, he knew him (Lookman) because they were together at Leicester City,” said Gasperini after the draw against Juventus.

“He was quick for Højlund, the club made an important investment in this lad. The club bought these two players who have been helping me work well.”