Spanish outlet Fichajes has reported that Atletico Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race to sign Nigeria international Ademola Lookman, following rising tensions between the forward and his Atalanta manager, Ivan Juric, Nigeriasoccernet.com gathered.
Lookman, one of Atalanta’s most consistent performers over the past two seasons, is reportedly considering an exit in the January transfer window after a heated touchline confrontation with Juric during a recent European fixture. The incident, which saw the pair exchange angry words before being separated by staff members, has allegedly strained relations within the club.
According to Fichajes, Tottenham currently leads the chase, viewing Lookman as a dynamic, multi-positional attacker who can add creativity and pace to Ange Postecoglou’s front line. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid is also pushing to strengthen their attacking options and is monitoring the situation closely.
“Lookman has made it clear that he could depart Atalanta in the next transfer window after a high-voltage incident with his coach,” the report stated, adding that the altercation has “made the atmosphere unsustainable” between the player and Juric.
With Atalanta’s hierarchy reportedly open to offers that meet their valuation, a January move appears increasingly possible.
Lookman’s current form and experience across Europe, having played in England, Germany, and Italy, make him an attractive target for both clubs. At 26, he is seen as being in his prime, and a transfer could materialize swiftly if negotiations align with Atalanta’s asking price.
The Nigerian forward has been instrumental for Atalanta since joining from RB Leipzig in 2022, helping the club secure Champions League qualification last season.