FIVE Premier League heavyweights have entered the race to sign Nigerian international Ademola Lookman following the collapse of his much-anticipated transfer to Inter Milan.
According to reports by TBR Football, Lookman’s representatives have held advanced talks with Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City, and Aston Villa over a potential return to England’s top flight.
The 27-year-old winger, who was crowned African Player of the Year in 2024, has been seeking an exit from Serie A side Atalanta after a career-defining season in Italy.
He was on the verge of sealing a £52 million switch to Inter Milan, but the Nerazzurri pulled the plug when Atalanta rejected their final offer.
With Inter now out of the picture, Premier League clubs are circling, eager to lure back a player whose stock has risen dramatically.
While all five clubs have expressed interest, Tottenham Hotspur are currently viewed as frontrunners. Spurs missed out on signing Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, who joined Arsenal and are keen to strengthen their wings ahead of the new season.
Lookman’s pace, dribbling ability, and proven finishing make him an ideal candidate.
Arsenal and Chelsea, meanwhile, have already bolstered their attacking ranks this summer, but both clubs remain engaged in talks as they consider additional depth for European competitions.
Manchester City’s move depends on whether Brazilian winger Savinho departs the Etihad, while Aston Villa face financial hurdles due to the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR), raising doubts about their ability to match Atalanta’s valuation.
Lookman’s growing reputation stems from a remarkable 2023/24 campaign in which he scored 20 goals and provided seven assists across all competitions for Atalanta. His crowning moment came in the Europa League final, where he netted a stunning hat-trick to secure the club’s first-ever European trophy.
The Nigerian star has since become a fan favourite in Bergamo, but his desire to test himself again in the Premier League appears to have reshaped his future.
Lookman previously had stints in England with Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City, though he never fully established himself as a consistent Premier League star.
His success in Italy has changed that perception, transforming him into one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards.
Negotiations are expected to intensify in the coming days, with Spurs tipped to lead the race. However, whether any of the interested clubs will meet Atalanta’s valuation remains the decisive factor.
For now, one thing is clear: Ademola Lookman’s Premier League homecoming is closer than ever.