Ademola Lookman had struggled to find any consistency prior to joining Atalanta in the summer of 2022, but the Nigerian has certainly started making good on the promise he had shown in the early stages of his career since moving to Italy.
In his first season at the club, Lookman contributed to a fantastic 21 goals in 33 appearances including scoring 15 goals, the first time he had ever struck in the double digits. His contributions in solely the league saw Lookman finish the Serie A season with the sixth-highest goals and assists of any player, while he also finished fifth highest in the goalscoring table.
Strong second season
Some thought this season may have just been a one-off for the Nigerian, but he has followed it up with yet another brilliant campaign for the Atalanta.
It did take a while for Lookman to return to the same level of performance that he achieved last season, but he hit form during December as he scored three and assisted one in five matches. The forward then joined Nigeria for the Africa Cup of Nations in January and February, finishing the tournament as the top scorer for his nation as the Super Eagles were devastatingly defeated 2-1 by hosts Ivory Coast in the final.
Since returning Lookman has consistently scored throughout the remaining games, and his performances have seen him linked with a series of potential suitors ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.
Juventus move on the cards?
The forward has been continuously linked with Juventus since arriving and impressing in Italy, and reports throughout this season have suggested that the Old Lady could look to bolster their attacking lineup with a move for Lookman in the coming window.
The Nigerian could be a fantastic option for Juventus as he has already proved his capabilities in the Italian top flight and his nine league goals and six assists this season would have him as their second-highest scorer and assister. With Juventus now looking likely to finish back in the top four this year they will be looking to return to the top of the table next season, but they will certainly need some more firepower if they are to do this.
The Old Lady have scored just 48 goals this season, the fewest of any team in the top six, only just over half of what champions Inter Milan have managed, 81. Lookman could, therefore, provide the perfect option to help score and create scoring opportunities as Juventus look to push on next season.
Suitors outside of Italy
However, Juventus may face competition for Lookman’s signature from a fellow European powerhouse with reports suggesting that Atletico Madrid are also weighing up a potential move for the Nigerian in the summer.
With all of Antoine Griezmann, Alvaro Morata, Memphis Depay and Angel Correa all nearing or over 30 years old, Lookman could be the perfect opportunity for Atletico to add a younger option to their attack with the forward entering his prime at 26-years-old.
Despite these potential transfers, Lookman is most likely to stay at his current home in Atalanta with his side still very much in the fight to finish in the top five and secure UEFA Champions League football, a competition that Lookman has made just one appearance in for RB Leipzig during the 2019/20 campaign.
Lookman to score anytime for Atalanta against Marseille: 2.75
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