Nigeria international forward Ademola Lookman will leave Italian Serie A side Atalanta at the end of the season, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.
Lookman who fired the club to their first European Cup glory with a hattrick in the 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen in the final of the Europa League was involved in a public exchange of words with head coach Gasperini.
Gasperini criticized the Nigerian for missing a spot kick in their 1-3 loss to Belgium side Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League play-off. Lookman responded with a statement saying he took the spot kick because he was asked to by the designated taker.
Last weekend after his brace and assist in their 3-0 win over Empoli, Lookman declined to comment on his relationship with Gasperini who explained earlier that it wasn’t his intention to hurt or disrespect the reigning Africa player of the year.
Even before the feud, it was already agreed that the 27 year old will leave the club at the end of this season, with Lookman and his entourage keen on making the most of what can be termed as his best spell in his career.
According to SkySports Italy contacts have already been made with Liverpool to examine the possibility of a permanent transfer this summer. Arsenal have also made inquiries but have no concrete steps have been taken unlike Liverpool who have had talks with his representatives. Liverpool consider the Nigerian as one of the most credible options to replace Mohamed Salah in the summer of 2025.
Also on his case are teams from Saudi Arabia, whose millions make Ademola Lookman dream. He has already informed his close relations: if the opportunity to play in the Saudi Pro League presents itself, he will seize it.
Daniel Martins
