Super Eagles superstar Ademola Lookman has been strongly advised to consider a switch to La Liga this summer, with Nigerian football legend Mutiu Adepoju encouraging the Atalanta forward to seek a fresh challenge outside Italy.
Lookman has been a standout performer for Atalanta since joining the Serie A side in August 2022 from RB Leipzig. The 26-year-old has flourished under former manager Gian Piero Gasperini, who played a pivotal role in his development in Italian football.
However, with Gasperini’s recent departure from Atalanta to take up the managerial position at AS Roma, speculation about Lookman’s own future has intensified. According to reports, several top clubs across Europe have been monitoring the Nigeria international, with interest from both Spain and England.
Lookman’s current contract runs until June 2027, but Adepoju—who played in La Liga for Real Sociedad and Racing Santander—believes the time is right for a move, particularly to Spain’s top flight.
“Despite having a contract with Atalanta, I think the time is ripe for him to move to another league,” Adepoju said. “He has grown tremendously in Italy, but I do not think he has anything else to prove there. La Liga would suit his style—technical, fast-paced football. It could be the perfect next step for his career.”
Rising Stock After Historic Season
Lookman enjoyed an outstanding 2024/25 campaign, scoring 18 goals and providing nine assists in 40 appearances across all competitions. His performances were crucial in helping Atalanta secure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.
The Nigerian forward’s most iconic moment came in May 2024, when he scored a historic hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen—becoming the first player ever to net a hat-trick in the competition’s final. That performance not only secured Atalanta’s first-ever European trophy but also elevated Lookman’s status as one of the most dangerous forwards in Europe.
Since arriving in Bergamo, Lookman has racked up 118 appearances and contributed directly to 77 goals (52 goals and 25 assists), proving to be one of the best signings in the club’s recent history.
What Next for Lookman?
While Atalanta are reportedly keen to keep hold of their star attacker, a major offer could change their stance—especially in the wake of a managerial transition. Clubs in La Liga, including Sevilla and Atletico Madrid, have previously been linked with Lookman, while Premier League sides are also believed to be monitoring his situation.
With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on the horizon and Nigeria aiming to build a squad capable of winning the title, Lookman’s next move could be critical—not just for his club career but also for his standing in the national team setup.
As Adepoju concluded:
“He’s matured into a complete player. A move to La Liga could test him in new ways, help him grow even more, and expose him to a different tactical environment. He’s ready.”
Lookman, who previously played for Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City in the Premier League, has yet to publicly comment on his future. However, with the transfer window in full swing, speculation is expected to intensify in the coming weeks.
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