Exclusive: Ademola Lookman Saga Heats Up as Tottenham and Villa Join Pursuit of Atalanta Forward

Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa have joined the battle to sign Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman, despite the Atalanta star having already agreed personal terms with Inter Milan.

Spurs and Villa make contact

Sources close to SportsBoom understands that both Tottenham and Villa have contacted Atalanta over a possible deal before the close of the transfer window.

Both clubs are seeking to bolster their attacking options with a versatile winger, and Lookman, 27, fits the profile.

Lookman has reportedly continued to miss Atalanta training, with some reports claiming he is currently in London waiting for his parent club to accept an offer. Tottenham are seen as the most likely side to meet Atalanta’s asking price, believed to be around €70 million.

Tottenham eye Son replacement

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank is keen to add attacking reinforcements following the departure of captain Heung-min Son. 

The North London side believe Lookman could be a direct replacement, citing his pace, ability to beat defenders in wide areas, and goal-scoring threat.

Aston Villa have made an enquiry for the player, but are unlikely to move forward unless they sell one of their current stars, such as Morgan Rogers or Ollie Watkins, to help fund the deal.

Lookman has been the subject of strong interest from Inter Milan this summer. The Serie A giants have had two bids rejected, with Atalanta holding out for around €50m (£42.1m). The forward has reportedly submitted a transfer request in an attempt to force the move.

This is not the first time Lookman has been linked with a return to England. The former RB Leipzig man has previously attracted interest from Nottingham Forest, Manchester United and Arsenal.

Lookman enjoyed an outstanding campaign last season, scoring 20 goals and providing seven assists in 40 appearances across all competitions. He is under contract with Atalanta until the summer of 2027 and was recently named African Footballer of the Year.