Nigerian international Ademola Lookman has reached out to several top Premier League clubs as he seeks a move away from Atalanta, following the collapse of his transfer to Inter Milan.
The 27-year-old forward's representatives have reportedly held talks with Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, Manchester City, and Aston Villa in recent days.
The failed move to Inter Milan has caused significant friction. Lookman recently ended a two-week training strike, which was his protest against Atalanta’s refusal to sanction his transfer to the San Siro. He has now returned to the club's training ground in Bergamo, but not without facing consequences.
According to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Atalanta plans to fine Lookman and dock his wages for his unauthorized absence. Despite the disciplinary action, Lookman's camp is actively seeking a new club, particularly in the Premier League.
The potential interest from top English teams is fueled by several factors, as outlined by TBR Football's chief correspondent, Graeme Bailey.
Tottenham’s pursuit of Savinho has stalled, while Arsenal is still in the market for a left winger.
Chelsea has yet to finalize a deal for Alejandro Garnacho, and Manchester City may need to replace Savinho as well. Aston Villa, having recently sold Jacob Ramsey, is also a potential destination.
Atalanta is reportedly seeking a transfer fee of £45 million for the Nigerian forward. The club's former manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, previously praised Lookman as "a truly extraordinary player, among the best in Europe and the world."
Despite the ongoing disciplinary issues, Atalanta's new head coach, Ivan Juric, is privately concerned about losing another key attacker, especially after the recent sale of top scorer Mateo Retegui.
This concern may make the club more hesitant to completely alienate their star player, even with the current tensions.