West Ham United is leading the race to sign Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman from Atalanta, aiming to outpace Premier League rivals Manchester United, Arsenal, and PSG.
GIVEMESPORT says the London club sees the 2024 Ballon d’Or nominee as a top target to boost Julen Lopetegui’s attack after a slow start to the season.
Lookman had a strong 2023/24 season with Atalanta, scoring 17 goals and adding 10 assists in all competitions. His season highlights included a hat-trick in the Europa League final, helping Atalanta secure their first European trophy. The 27-year-old finished 14th in Monday’s Ballon d’Or rankings, ahead of Premier League talents Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Cole Palmer. Although he’s under contract with Atalanta until 2026, Lookman could be available for around €25 million.
Italian sources previously reported that Lookman may seek a new challenge and could leave Serie A in January.
This season, the Nigerian international has continued his good form with five goals and five assists in 10 games. West Ham sees him as an ideal addition to an attack that includes Jarrod Bowen, Mohammed Kudus, and Lucas Paqueta, as they look for solutions with Michail Antonio getting older and new signing Niclas Fullkrug struggling to make an impact.
