Atlético Madrid have pulled ahead of Tottenham Hotspur in the pursuit of the €60 million-rated Serie A goal-getter.
Interest in the winger surged during the summer window, with several European clubs tracking his situation. Lookman was eager to join Tottenham on deadline day, but the move never materialised. Spurs explored a loan with an option to buy, yet Atalanta rejected the proposal, making it clear they would only consider a permanent transfer.
Atletico Madrid leading the race for Ademola Lookman
Lookman’s dispute with former manager Ivan Jurić — who was dismissed earlier this week — has increased the likelihood of the forward leaving Bergamo in 2026. Tottenham remain keen and are expected to make another attempt, but multiple clubs are also preparing to act if the opportunity arises.
According to TuttoJuve, Atletico Madrid are currently ahead of Spurs in the chase for the 28-year-old. The Spanish side have stepped up their pursuit in recent weeks and are prepared to offer around €60 million, a fee Atalanta could accept in January. Atletico are now seeking direct contact with Lookman’s camp, aware that Tottenham are still closely tracking the situation. The player appears ready for a fresh challenge, with both La Liga and a Premier League return appealing to him.
Why Tottenham want Lookman
For Spurs, this represents a significant opening. With Son Heung-min now at Los Angeles FC and no current option securing the left-wing role, Thomas Frank is prioritising the recruitment of a top-level wide player to complement Mohammed Kudus in attack.
At 28, Lookman is in his prime and brings attributes Tottenham currently lack — flair, directness, the ability to stretch defences, and relentless off-the-ball intensity. He fits seamlessly into Frank’s high-energy system. The obstacle is Atletico Madrid.
The La Liga side, struggling to find form this season, want to reinforce their frontline and see Lookman as a key target. They are preparing a major bid for the winter window, hoping Atalanta agree to a deal. The contest between Spurs and Atletico for the Nigerian international is shaping up to be a major storyline.
From Tottenham’s viewpoint, Lookman is an ideal profile, and his previous Premier League experience means he arrives ready for the demands of English football. For a club aiming to stay competitive across the season, overcoming Atletico’s challenge to secure his signature could prove crucial.
