
Newcastle United and Aston Villa are preparing summer bids for Ademola Lookman, with the Nigerian international reportedly considering a return to the Premier League.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown revealed to Football Insider that Newcastle have already sent scouts to Italy to monitor Lookman, signaling strong interest in the 27-year-old forward.
The Magpies are particularly drawn to Lookman’s versatility, as he can operate across multiple attacking positions.
Transfer speculation has intensified following Lookman’s public fallout with Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini after the club’s Champions League exit. Lookman labeled his manager’s post-match comments on a missed penalty as “deeply disrespectful,” fueling doubts about his future in Italy. Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool are also reportedly monitoring the situation.
Sources indicate that Atalanta could demand up to €65m (£53.8m) for Lookman, who rose to prominence after netting a hat-trick in last season’s Europa League final.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe views Lookman as a key solution to the club’s attacking depth, while Aston Villa have been offered the chance to sign him, potentially using funds from Jhon Duran’s recent sale. The Villans see Lookman as an upgrade on their current wide attacking options.
Lookman’s camp has emphasized his strong desire to return to the Premier League. His impressive tally of 17 goals and seven assists this season has only heightened interest from top English clubs.
With just 12 months left on his current deal, Atalanta hold an option to extend his contract by another year. However, Lookman appears keen on a move back to England, keeping the transfer saga alive.