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Which of Europe’s big sides needs Lookman the most?

Ademola Lookman has established himself as one of the most exciting attacking talents in European football, and after another remarkable season with Atalanta, the Nigerian international could be on the move this summer.

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His historic hat-trick in the Europa League final propelled Atalanta to their first-ever European title, making him an instant legend at the club as he earned a Ballon d’Or nomination and the prestigious CAF African Player of the Year award.

However, tensions with Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini, following a crucial penalty miss in their Champions League quarter-final exit against Club Brugge, have fast-tracked his departure, and a failed move to Paris Saint-Germain has closed that door, but Lookman still has plenty of suitors.

Here are six European giants that could swoop in for the Super Eagles star in the summer of 2025.

Manchester United

Manchester United are in dire need of attacking reinforcements, and Lookman fits the bill perfectly. With Marcus Rashford and Antony both likely to depart permanently in the summer and Alejandro Garnacho possibly following suit, United will be short on creative firepower.

Lookman would be an ideal signing for new manager Ruben Amorim, and the Nigerian forward would slot in perfectly into the Red Devils boss’ 3-4-3 formation as a left-sided number 10, where he can drift inside and exploit spaces behind the striker, something he has done to devastating effect at Atalanta.

Manchester United have been forced to rely on makeshift options like Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee in that position, but Lookman would bring immediate quality and experience to the role.

His ability to score goals and create chances, both things that Manchester United have struggled with this season, could make him an instant starter at Old Trafford.

Juventus

For Lookman, staying in Italy could be the most logical choice. Having established himself in Serie A, a move to Juventus would allow him to hit the ground running rather than having to adapt to a new league.

The Bianconeri are reportedly keen on signing him, and for good reason—his tally of 17 goal contributions last season puts him seven ahead of Juventus’ best-performing forward, Dusan Vlahovic.

Lookman’s ability to play across the front three would give Juventus tactical flexibility. Thiago Motta’s rigid, defence-first approach may seem like a stark contrast to Atalanta’s fluid attacking football, but Lookman’s ability to create chances out of nothing means he could still thrive in such a system.

There is also the enticing possibility of linking up with Victor Osimhen, who is another summer target for Juventus. The two Nigerians combined brilliantly during the 2024 AFCON, and if Juventus could reunite them at club level, they could have one of the most dangerous attacking duos in Serie A.

Liverpool

Liverpool’s interest in Lookman makes perfect sense, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future.

Even if Salah stays, Lookman’s versatility allows him to play as a false nine or on either flank, making him an excellent addition to Liverpool’s attacking options.

The Reds have been rotating between Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz on the left, but Lookman could stake his claim for a starting spot.

Having seen Salah transform into a world-class star after moving from Italy to Merseyside, Liverpool might hope to repeat that success with Lookman. If they manage to do so, the Nigerian could become a key figure in their next era of dominance.

Arsenal

Arsenal have been on the cusp of Premier League glory but have lacked the attacking firepower to cross the finish line. Lookman could be the missing piece.

Gabriel Martinelli has long been considered a future superstar, but Arsenal fans are still waiting for him to hit world-class levels. If Mikel Arteta is looking for a more polished version of Martinelli, Lookman could be the answer.

Arsenal’s struggles in the final third have been well-documented, with their inability to kill off games proving costly in the title race. Lookman, who has consistently delivered in crucial moments, could be the missing piece that takes Arsenal from perennial challengers to genuine winners.

Beyond his goal-scoring prowess, Lookman’s ability to operate in tight spaces and link up with midfielders makes him an asset for a possession-based side like Arsenal and he could also provide cover for Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus at the centre-forward position.

If Arsenal want to shake off their “nearly men” tag and finally claim silverware, a player like Lookman could be a game-changer.

Chelsea

Chelsea’s squad is brimming with youthful talent, but what they lack is experienced players who have been through the highs and lows of European football. Lookman, at 27, offers precisely that.

Having played across the English, German, and Italian leagues, he has gained invaluable experience that could benefit Chelsea’s young side.

Lookman’s journey from Charlton to Everton, Fulham, Leicester, and Atalanta has shaped him into a resilient, battle-hardened footballer. He knows what it is like to fight for his place, bounce back from setbacks, and deliver when it matters most.

Chelsea, a team that has often lacked mental toughness in recent seasons, could benefit from having a player of his character in the dressing room.

From a tactical perspective, Lookman’s goal-scoring ability would be a welcome addition to a Chelsea side that has struggled to finish chances. With Nicolas Jackson excelling in link-up play, Lookman could be the clinical wide forward who capitalises on the Senegalese striker’s hold-up play.

Barcelona

Barcelona have been searching for a left-sided attacker and have explored options like Athletic Club’s Nico Williams and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao. However, statistically, Lookman outperforms both in crucial areas.

He has outscored them both while also boasting higher non-penalty expected goals (xG). He also surpasses Leao in shot-creating actions, progressive carries, and dribbles into the penalty area, attributes that are meant to be the Portuguese star’s strengths.

Over the last year, Lookman has also outperformed Williams in shot-creating actions, carries into the penalty area, and expected assists.

Given Barcelona’s financial constraints, Lookman represents a more affordable yet equally effective alternative to their top targets. If they are serious about strengthening their frontline, the Nigeria international should be high on their priority list.

Whether he opts for a return to the Premier League, remains in Serie A, or ventures into La Liga, one thing is certain: Lookman is a player at the peak of his powers, ready to take on a new challenge.

With Manchester United, Juventus, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barcelona all in the mix, the Nigerian forward is spoilt for choice. The only question that remains is which European giant will secure his signature and reap the benefits of his undeniable talent.