Juventus has shifted their focus towards acquiring Atalanta’s dynamic Nigerian forward Ademola Lookingman as they prepare for the upcoming summer transfer window. This move comes as a result of the difficulties they have been experiencing in acquiring Napoli’s striker Victor Osimhen.
The Bianconeri actively work to strengthen their offensive department ahead of 2025/26 and have held internal discussion regarding multiple targets. Osimhen was the club’s first priority for many years, but due to the high cost of securing him, Juventus is forced to look at other options.
Osimhen currently commands an annual salary of €10 million and has a release clause set at €70 million. Osimhen’s name is also being mentioned in transfer discussions with other top clubs. Manchester United, the Premier League giant, has expressed a serious interest.
Napoli’s sporting director Giovanni Manna is reportedly in active talks with Manchester United regarding a possible deal for Osimhen, which could potentially involve a swap deal including Danish forward Rasmus Højlund heading to Naples. The uncertainty surrounding the deal has forced Juventus’ transfer strategy to be reevaluated.
The Turin club has now redirected its attention to Ademola Lookman who is having a stellar season with Atalanta. The 27-yearold Nigerian winger’s performances in Serie A have made him a target for many clubs across Europe.
Lookman is a player that Juventus sporting director Cristiano D’Amico has been following for some years. His name was mentioned in a dinner meeting held earlier this year between Tony D’Amico, Atalanta’s Director. The mutual respect between the two clubs could facilitate a smoother negotiating process.
Reports claim that Lookman and Atalanta will part ways at the end the current season. Several Premier League clubs and other Serie A clubs have already expressed interest. Napoli has also joined the race to secure him.
Atalanta are understood to be demanding a transfer fee of around €60 million for the former Leicester City man, who joined the club in 2022 for just €15 million. Lookman, who joined the Bergamo-based club in 2022 for only EUR15 million, has been a vital player ever since.
He was a key player in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph last season, and has continued this strong form into the current season. In all competitions he has scored 18 goals and provided seven assists. His versatility, creativeness, and consistent ability to score goals make him an attractive alternative to Osimhen.
Osimhen is still a top-level target for Juventus, but if the talks fall through, they will act quickly to make Lookman their priority signing.
