Serie A champions Napoli have made Nigerian international Ademola Lookman their primary summer target as they prepare to strengthen their attack following the departure of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to Paris Saint-Germain.
Lookman, who was named African Footballer of the Year in 2024, is currently valued at €60 million by Atalanta. Napoli, under new boss Antonio Conte, are preparing a €50 million offer and see the 27-year-old winger as the ideal candidate to spearhead a revamped front line alongside Romelu Lukaku.
While Napoli are confident that their project and playing style will appeal to Lookman, Atalanta are not under pressure to sell and remain firm in their valuation.
Conte, who guided Napoli to their fourth Scudetto, is believed to be an admirer of Lookman’s explosive pace and direct style — qualities that mirror the influence Kvaratskhelia had during his time at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.
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Napoli may need to sell another Nigerian star to fund Lookman’s acquisition. Victor Osimhen, who has drawn interest from Juventus and Saudi side Al-Hilal, could be the key to unlocking the funds.
Osimhen, however, is understood to prefer a move to the Premier League, despite a reported €75 million bid from Al-Hilal, which he declined earlier this week. Should Dusan Vlahovic leave Turin, Juventus could accelerate their pursuit of Osimhen, which would in turn allow Napoli to move more aggressively for Lookman.
Lookman’s standout performances in Serie A and for Nigeria have not gone unnoticed across Europe. Several Premier League clubs and La Liga contenders are monitoring his situation, with sources close to the player revealing that he remains open to offers outside of Italy.
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Nevertheless, Napoli’s Champions League ambitions and Conte’s vision could prove decisive in securing his signature.
Lookman scored 20 goals and assisted 7 across all competitions last season, helping Atalanta to a strong league finish and European qualification.
