Reigning UEFA Champions League champions, Real Madrid, are reportedly set to battle with Manchester United for Atalanta’s in-form forward, Ademola Lookman, according to sources in Spain.
Lookman has been a standout performer in Europe, playing a pivotal role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph last season – scoring a hattrick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen in a 3-0 win – and helping Nigeria reach the Africa Cup of Nations final for the first time in over a decade. His stellar performances earned him 14th place in the latest France Football Ballon d’Or rankings.
Lookman is also considered a frontrunner for the prestigious African Footballer of the Year award, set to be announced on December 16.
Paris Saint-Germain had previously been close to signing the Super Eagles star, reportedly agreeing on personal terms with the 27-year-old, but the deal fell through during the summer transfer window.
Atalanta are struggling to retain their prized asset, who has attracted interest from top European clubs, including Real Madrid, Arsenal, Manchester United, West Ham United and others. Reports suggest Real Madrid are keen to strengthen their attacking options and view Lookman as a prime target for a summer transfer.
However, should he join Madrid, he may have to compete for playing time behind stars like Vinícius Júnior and potentially Kylian Mbappé, should the club secure a central forward.
Lookman, who recently turned 27, has been in red-hot form this season, with eight goals and four assists in 14 appearances across all competitions for Atalanta. The Nigeria international is expected to command a transfer fee of around €70 million.
