Al-Ittihad is reportedly targeting Ademola Lookman in an effort to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2024-2025 Saudi Pro League season. The club has already made a formal bid to Atalanta for the Nigerian forward.
As Al-Ittihad prepares for the new season, the club is keen on reinforcing all areas of its squad.
With the aim of enhancing their attacking prowess alongside star player Karim Benzema, Al-Ittihad has set their sights on several key players, including Ademola Lookman.
Lookman enjoyed an impressive season with Atalanta, catching the attention of the Saudi club.
To secure his services, Al-Ittihad has submitted an initial offer of just under €30 million and proposed a salary exceeding €9 million per year. Lookman’s current contract with Atalanta runs until 2026.
Lookman’s standout performance this season has been a significant factor in attracting interest from Al-Ittihad. On May 22, 2024, Lookman played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph over Bayer Leverkusen.
The forward scored a remarkable hat-trick in the final, ending Bayer Leverkusen’s unbeaten run in the competition and securing a 3-0 victory for Atalanta.
This feat made Lookman the first African player to score a hat-trick in a European competition final.
Throughout the season, he netted 17 goals across all competitions, including 11 goals in the league, in 45 appearances.
It remains to be seen whether Atalanta will accept Al-Ittihad’s offer for Lookman.
The Nigerian forward’s contract, which extends until 2026, means that any potential transfer would require a substantial financial agreement.
Lookman’s successful campaign with Atalanta has certainly increased his market value, making him a coveted player in the transfer market.
If the transfer materializes, Lookman would join a growing list of high-profile players moving to the Saudi Pro League.
Al-Ittihad’s strategy to pair him with Benzema indicates the club’s ambition to compete at the highest level domestically and internationally.
For Lookman, the move could present an opportunity to further his career in a new and rapidly developing football environment.
As the transfer window progresses, the football world will be watching closely to see if Ademola Lookman makes the switch to Al-Ittihad.
The Nigerian forward’s potential move to Saudi Arabia could mark a significant step in Al-Ittihad’s quest to build a formidable team for the upcoming season.
