Ademola Lookman has reportedly emerged as Liverpool’s leading candidate to replace Mohamed Salah if the Egyptian departs Anfield this summer.
The Atalanta forward could become the first ever Nigerian player to sign for Liverpool on a permanent deal, following Victor Moses’ loan spell at Anfield during the 2013/14 season.
Liverpool’s Interest in Lookman
Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, and manager Arne Slot are reportedly preparing for life after Salah, with Lookman considered the ideal replacement.
The Super Eagles winger has been in sensational form since moving to Italy, contributing heavily to Atalanta’s success, including a historic hat-trick in the 2024 UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen.
One of the best hat-tricks we have seen in a very long time ?
— Bet9ja: The home of #betBOOM! ? (@Bet9jaOfficial) May 22, 2024
?? Atalanta 3-0 Bayer Leverkusen ??pic.twitter.com/hq7NZsS3D8
According to Sky Sports Switzerland journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Liverpool have taken concrete steps toward signing Lookman this summer, with several other clubs also monitoring his situation. However, the Reds are believed to be leading the race for his signature.
Atalanta Exit Looms
Lookman’s time at Atalanta appears to be coming to an end following a fallout with manager Gian Piero Gasperini. The Nigerian forward was publicly criticized by Gasperini after missing a crucial penalty in Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League defeat to Club Brugge.
The coach’s harsh words – calling Lookman one of the worst penalty takers he’s ever seen – led to tension, with the winger responding on social media, defending his decision to take the spot-kick.
Ademola Lookman has responded to Gian Piero Gasperini's penalty criticism ? pic.twitter.com/mFQqCsoHGC
— Bet9ja: The home of #betBOOM! ? (@Bet9jaOfficial) February 19, 2025
With relations strained, Atalanta are reportedly open to selling Lookman, with an asking price of around €65 million (£53.8m).
Other Clubs in the Race
While Liverpool are currently leading the chase for Lookman, they face strong competition from other Premier League clubs.
Reports are suggesting that several top sides view him as a valuable attacking addition in the Summer window, with Arsenal, Newcastle United, and Manchester United all keeping a close eye on the Atalanta winger. Juventus, Inter Milan and PSG are also said to be monitoring the situation closely.
His versatility, ability to play across the front line, and proven goal-scoring record in Europe make him a highly sought after talent.
2 goals and 2 assists for Ademola Lookman over the weekend ? ?? pic.twitter.com/AbOXm99nGN
— Bet9ja: The home of #betBOOM! ? (@Bet9jaOfficial) October 28, 2024
Past with Everton
If Liverpool complete the signing of Lookman, it would mark a significant chapter in his career, especially given his past with city rivals Everton. The winger joined Everton in 2017 as a highly-rated young talent but struggled for consistent game time before moving on to RB Leipzig and later Atalanta. A return to Merseyside, this time in the red of Liverpool, would add an extra layer of intrigue to his Premier League comeback.
Ademola Lookman (€8.8M) – Charlton Athletic to Everton (2017) pic.twitter.com/Pq6ccx8Q3b
— Transfersthathappened (@actualtransfers) October 28, 2024
What Next?
With Salah’s future at Anfield still uncertain, Liverpool must act fast to secure their successor. Lookman, at 27 years old, is entering the prime of his career and has all the attributes to thrive in the Premier League once again.
Can Lookman step into Salah’s shoes and write his own legacy at Anfield? Time will tell, but one thing is certain, Nigeria’s rising star is ready for the next big step in his career.
