The transfer market is heating up, and a new name is starting to resonate strongly with Atlético de Madrid. According to the prestigious journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ademola Lookman's future at Atalanta is practically sealed, and his departure in the summer seems inevitable. With the recent tensions between the Nigerian forward and his coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, the red-and-white team could take advantage of the situation to strengthen their attack for the next season.
Lookman and Gasperini: A Broken Relationship
The controversy erupted after the second leg of the Champions League play-offs, where Atalanta was eliminated against Brugge. Lookman, who had scored a goal just a minute after entering the field, decided to take a crucial penalty for his team... and missed it. This mistake unleashed the fury of Gasperini, who did not hesitate to criticize him harshly.
"Lookman is the worst penalty taker I've seen," stated the Italian coach in a press conference, making his discontent with the decision clear. He also pointed out that the Nigerian took the responsibility without being the first option, when there were other more capable players on the field, like Retegui or De Ketelaere.
Fabrizio Romano Confirms Lookman's Departure
The renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano has been blunt in his information. "I understand that the plan remains for Ademola Lookman to leave Atalanta this summer. Atalanta will try to clarify the situation with Gasperini in the next 24 hours after the strong statements... but it won't change future plans. It was already planned last summer, and the transfer would take place this year."
With this scenario, several European clubs have set their sights on Lookman, and one of them is Atlético de Madrid. The red-and-white team is looking for top-level reinforcements to remain consolidated in the European elite.
Atlético de Madrid, Attentive to Lookman's Situation
For several weeks, various media have pointed out Atlético de Madrid's interest in Lookman. Diego Simeone is looking to enhance his attack with a versatile and unbalancing player, characteristics that the Nigerian perfectly fulfills.
Lookman's signing would fit into Atlético's reinforcement plans, as they need more depth in their squad to compete in all competitions. With the broken relationship between the player and Gasperini, the colchonero team could find a market opportunity to acquire his services at an affordable price.