Sport Transfer: Atalanta Set Lookman’s Price Tag as Manchester United Confirm Deal
In what promises to be one of the more intriguing sagas of the 2025 summer transfer window, Atalanta have reportedly slapped a hefty price tag on star winger Ademola Lookman amid strong interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils, in turn, have confirmed a deal—believed to be for a different target—adding further complexity and urgency to their current recruitment drive. With Lookman’s value now clearly stated by his club, United’s intentions have become a major topic in the football world.
United’s Summer Revamp in Motion
Manchester United’s transfer window has been anything but quiet. Following a tumultuous 2024/25 season that saw them miss out on Champions League qualification yet again, new co-owners INEOS have wasted no time in reshaping the squad. Erik ten Hag—retained in a somewhat surprising show of long-term faith—has been promised a refreshed and more dynamic roster. That begins with the confirmation of their latest signing: Dutch midfielder Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, a deal worth around £35 million.
The 24-year-old right wing-back is expected to bring energy, creativity, and versatility to United’s flank, with Diogo Dalot expected to be moved either centrally or sold. The announcement of Frimpong’s arrival has reignited discussions about how United intend to structure their attack—especially considering persistent rumors about Marcus Rashford’s potential departure and Jadon Sancho’s uncertain future.
But while Frimpong has filled one gap, another void remains wide open: the need for a wide attacker who can provide consistency, flair, and goals from the left flank. That’s where Ademola Lookman comes into the picture.
Lookman’s Meteoric Rise
Ademola Lookman has enjoyed a remarkable renaissance in Serie A. Since joining Atalanta in 2022 from RB Leipzig, the Nigerian international has grown into one of the most devastating attacking threats in Italy. His performances during the 2024/25 campaign—most notably his Europa League Final hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen—catapulted his reputation to new heights.
In 38 appearances across all competitions, Lookman notched 17 goals and 9 assists. More than the raw numbers, however, it was the timing and quality of his contributions that made headlines. His ability to deliver in big games, coupled with his improved physicality and tactical discipline, has made him an attractive target for clubs across Europe.
United are believed to have been tracking Lookman since early 2024, but recent developments have accelerated talks. Atalanta, aware of growing interest not just from Old Trafford but also from clubs in Saudi Arabia and the Bundesliga, have set their price: €60 million (£51 million).
Atalanta’s Stance: €60M or Nothing
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side is under no pressure to sell. Having qualified for the Champions League and with strong financial backing from their ownership group, Atalanta can afford to be patient. Club officials have communicated that Lookman is only available if their €60 million valuation is met, and ideally, they would prefer to keep him for another season as they build around a young, hungry core.
However, Lookman’s representatives are understood to be open to a move—especially to a club with the global stature of Manchester United. The player himself has remained tight-lipped but reportedly views a Premier League return as a natural next step in his career, especially one that could cement his place as Nigeria’s talisman ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
United’s Calculated Gamble
With Rashford’s future hanging in the balance—Barcelona’s interest reportedly intensifying—and uncertainty around the roles of Antony and Sancho, United are keen to secure a wide forward who can operate on either flank, preferably with Premier League experience. Lookman ticks all the boxes.
Yet, the €60M price tag presents a dilemma. United are not flush with unlimited funds this summer, and every deal has to be weighed against Financial Fair Play restrictions and squad priorities. Having already committed funds for Frimpong and still chasing a new central midfielder (with João Neves and Youssouf Fofana on their radar), the Red Devils may need to offload before pushing for Lookman.
The club’s recruitment team is reportedly exploring structured deals—possibly including performance-based add-ons, or a player-plus-cash offer. Donny van de Beek, Facundo Pellistri, and Hannibal Mejbri are among the names being discussed internally as possible makeweights in any potential bid.
Competition Looming?
Though United appear to be leading the chase, they’re not alone. Bayern Munich, who lost out to Atalanta in the Europa League final, are monitoring Lookman as a contingency in case they fail to land top target Leroy Sané. Meanwhile, Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad have reportedly made exploratory inquiries, willing to double whatever Lookman currently earns in Italy.
Still, it’s believed the player prioritizes sporting ambition over financial gain at this stage of his career. This gives United a major edge—if they move decisively.
Erik ten Hag’s Vision
Ten Hag sees Lookman as a key piece in United’s attacking puzzle. His versatility—comfortable on the left, right, or centrally in a false nine—makes him a valuable asset in a fluid front line. The Dutch manager also appreciates Lookman’s pressing intensity, tactical awareness, and ability to beat defenders one-on-one, all of which suit the kind of high-intensity football United are aiming to return to.
The fact that Lookman is English-born but represents Nigeria also adds an extra layer of marketability for United in West Africa, a region where the club has long had a loyal following. It’s a rare instance where commercial value and footballing need align.
The Clock Is Ticking
With pre-season already underway and United set to tour the United States in August, the club is aiming to complete all key signings before the Premier League kicks off in mid-August. The Lookman deal, however, may drag on unless Atalanta budge on their asking price or United decide to meet the €60M outright.
Sources close to the negotiation suggest that United are expected to return with an improved offer in the coming days. Whether that’s enough to sway Atalanta remains to be seen.
Conclusion
Manchester United have made their first major move of the summer by confirming the signing of Jeremie Frimpong—but the pursuit of Ademola Lookman could define their transfer window. Atalanta’s valuation of €60 million is steep but not outrageous for a player entering his prime with a proven track record in two of Europe’s top leagues.
If United can successfully bring Lookman to Old Trafford, it would signal not just a smart footballing decision but also a clear intent to rebuild a front line that’s too often lacked imagination and edge. With the window heating up and several big clubs lurking, the ball is now in United’s court. Will they play it safe, or go all-in on a player who could transform their attack?
Only time will tell—but in the high-stakes world of SportTransfer, hesitation can be the costliest mistake of all.
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