Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United, and West Ham United are reportedly vying for the signature of reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman. The Atalanta forward is seeking a summer exit, and a Premier League return is on the cards.
According to Football Insider, Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United are leading the charge, with West Ham United also in the mix. However, the Hammers’ inability to offer Champions League football next season puts them at a disadvantage.
Nottingham Forest, currently third in the Premier League table, may need to break their transfer record to sign Lookman, surpassing the £35 million paid for midfielder Elliott Anderson. Lookman’s versatility, having played on either flank, as a center forward, or as a playmaker, makes him an attractive option for Forest.
The Nigerian’s desire to leave Atalanta stems from a publicized clash with manager Gian Piero Gasperini over a missed penalty in a Champions League match against Club Brugge. Since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in August 2022, Lookman has scored 50 goals in 110 matches across all competitions.
A summer move to the Premier League beckons, with Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United, and West Ham United competing for the services of one of Africa’s top talents.