PSG renews interest in Lookman amid Atalanta’s improved contract offer

French Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain PSG have reignited their interest in signing Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman. Meanwhile, his current club, Atalanta, is preparing an improved contract to retain the player amid increasing transfer speculation.

Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini recently expressed his hope that Lookman would remain at the club through the January transfer window. Earlier in the year, Lookman trained separately at Zingonia while awaiting a possible move to PSG, but a formal offer, reportedly expected to be around €60 million, never materialised. Since then, Lookman has reaffirmed his commitment to Atalanta, contributing 8 goals and 5 assists in all competitions this season.

PSG is reportedly prepared to meet Atalanta’s valuation, with a bid of up to €65 million. This offer could tempt the Serie A club, given their attacking depth with players like Charles De Ketelaere, Nicolo Zaniolo, Mateo Retegui, and the soon-to-return Gianluca Scamacca. However, Lookman’s unique ability to change the outcome of matches with his dribbling and attacking flair makes him a valuable asset.

Atalanta, demonstrating their ambition in both Serie A and the Champions League, are unwilling to offer any discounts on Lookman’s transfer. They are also preparing a contract extension with an increased salary, signalling their intent to keep the Nigerian star. Clubs interested in Lookman will likely have to meet Atalanta’s full valuation, whether during the January transfer window or next summer.

Editorial

Ademola Lookman’s rise as one of Serie A’s most influential forwards highlights his growing importance to Atalanta. The club’s decision to offer him an improved contract amid PSG’s renewed interest is a strong statement of intent and ambition.

For Atalanta, Lookman’s contributions go beyond goals and assists; his ability to unsettle defences and deliver match winning moments is invaluable. As PSG circles, the club faces a delicate balancing act retaining a player vital to their success or leveraging his value to strengthen their squad further.

For Lookman, this situation underscores his status as a sought after talent in European football. While PSG’s financial power and global stature may be appealing, staying at Atalanta offers continuity and the opportunity to grow in a team where he plays a pivotal role.

As the January transfer window approaches, Lookman’s future will undoubtedly draw attention. Whether he stays or moves, his decision will shape not only his career trajectory but also the ambitions of his suitors and current club.

Did You Know?

1. Ademola Lookman joined Atalanta in the summer of 2022 and quickly became a key player in their attacking setup.
2. PSG has been monitoring Lookman for over a year, with their initial interest reported during the last transfer window.
3. Lookman’s market value has skyrocketed due to his consistent performances in Serie A and European competitions.
4. Atalanta’s attacking depth includes several high-profile players, reducing their reliance on a single forward.
5. Lookman’s dribbling success rate and chance creation stats place him among the top wingers in Europe this season.