Real Madrid have entered the race for in-form Ademola Lookman, with the UEFA Champions League holders eyeing the Nigerian forward as a potential replacement for Vinicius Junior, according to reports
Since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022 for €9.35m (plus bonuses), Lookman has been in outstanding form, scoring 39 goals and providing 23 assists in 90 appearances. His performances have caught the attention of several top European clubs.Â
The 27-year-old was on the verge of a move to Paris Saint-Germain this past summer, with reports suggesting he had agreed to personal terms with the French club. Last season, Lookman featured in 45 matches, scoring 17 goals and registering 10 assists, with a memorable hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen.Â
This season, Lookman has continued his impressive form, netting seven goals and adding five assists in just 12 appearances. Despite Atalanta managing to hold on to him during the summer transfer window, they may now be forced to cash in as interest in the forward grows.Â
Real Madrid are reportedly preparing for the possibility of Vinicius Junior’s departure, with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal said to be preparing a record-breaking €300m bid for the Brazilian. The deal would surpass Neymar’s €222m move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.Â
As speculation surrounding Vinicius’ future continues, Madrid are reportedly considering Lookman as a strong candidate to fill the void left by the Brazilian should he move. Spanish outlet *Fichajes* notes that Lookman’s speed, dribbling ability, and versatility make him an ideal fit for Carlo Ancelotti’s attacking setup, capable of playing on either wing and excelling in one-on-one situations.Â
Lookman is valued at €60m by “Transfermarkt”, a price Real Madrid would likely be willing to meet. The Nigerian was recently ranked 14th in the Ballon d’Or rankings and is also a frontrunner for the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award.
Peoplesmind
