Italian champions Napoli are preparing a formal bid for Nigeria international and Atalanta forward, Ademola Lookman, as they look to strengthen their attack ahead of the 2025/26 season.
The 27-year-old has emerged as a top target for Napoli, who view him as the ideal replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia following the Georgian winger’s move to Paris Saint-Germain in January.
Antonio Conte’s side have already made headlines in the summer transfer window with the signings of Kevin De Bruyne and rising star Luca Marianucci. Now, they’re keen to bolster their frontline with Lookman, and according to CNA, are preparing a €50 million offer—just short of Atalanta’s €60 million valuation.
Lookman’s future at Atalanta had seemed uncertain following a reported rift with former manager Gian Piero Gasperini. However, the arrival of new coach Ivan Juric has added a fresh twist. Juric, during his unveiling, made it clear he hopes to retain the reigning African Footballer of the Year.
“It will be tough in the league, there will be fierce competitors,” Juric said, as quoted by Calcio Napoli. “The idea would be to keep both Lookman and Ederson, even if the club has clear ideas on the market. I have not made any requests regarding players—not even those I’ve coached before.”
Despite Atalanta’s public stance, interest in Lookman continues to grow. Several Premier League clubs are monitoring the situation, and Barcelona have also been linked with a move for the in-form forward.
Lookman has been in sensational form since joining Atalanta, racking up 52 goals and 25 assists in 108 appearances. His standout performance came in May 2024, when he scored a historic hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen to hand Atalanta their first-ever European trophy.
With suitors lining up and Napoli pushing hard, Lookman faces a key decision—whether to stay in Italy or make a high-profile return to English football, where he previously featured for Charlton, Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City.
