Aston Villa is working to sign Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman from Atalanta, using their potential Champions League qualification as a lure. The club is eager to convince Lookman to join them if they secure a spot in next season’s competition.
Atalanta values the 27-year-old at around €65 million (£55 million), having rejected offers near £40 million in the past. This valuation places Lookman among Europe’s top talents.
Lookman joined Atalanta in 2022 and has made a notable impact, scoring 50 goals and contributing 22 assists in 112 appearances. His performance in the 2024 UEFA Europa League final, where he scored a hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, helped his team secure the title. Lookman’s standout achievement earned him the African Footballer of the Year award, making him the seventh Nigerian to win the honor.
Villa’s Champions League qualification is a major achievement, marking the club’s first appearance in the competition since 1982-83. This success gives Villa an edge in the transfer market, making them an attractive option for top players like Lookman.
Competition for Lookman is intense, with several Premier League teams expressing interest. However, Villa’s potential Champions League spot could make their offer even more appealing.
With the transfer window approaching, Villa is keen to strengthen its squad, and Lookman could play a vital role in their future European ambitions.
