Roma consider January move for Atletico de Madrid forward Ademola Lookman

Ademola Lookman’s limited role at Atletico de Madrid has attracted the attention of AS Roma, who are considering a move for the Nigeria forward during the January transfer window.

Lookman joined Atletico de Madrid from Atalanta Bergamasca Calcio and made an immediate impression after his arrival. Between January and May 2026, he scored nine goals in 24 appearances, suggesting he could become an important part of Diego Simeone’s team.

His impact has diminished this season, however. The 28-year-old has scored twice and provided one assist in 15 competitive appearances. Although he has started nine LaLiga matches, he has not been named in the starting line-up for any of Atletico de Madrid’s Champions League fixtures.

The emergence of Alex Baena in Simeone’s tactical plans has further limited Lookman’s opportunities. Roma are monitoring that situation closely and believe it could provide them with an opportunity to recruit the forward.

According to Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Lookman is among the players being considered by Roma’s sporting department. The club’s sporting director, Tony D’Amico, is said to admire the Nigeria international’s profile and views his current circumstances as a potential opening.

Roma to assess situation in December

Roma could begin discussions with Lookman’s representatives during the first weeks of December 2026. The Italian club wants to establish the player’s position before deciding whether to make a formal approach in January.

The situation could develop further if Atletico de Madrid decide to sign another forward during the winter window. Such a move could increase the possibility of Lookman leaving the Spanish club.

A return to Italy may also appeal to Lookman, who could be reunited with Gian Piero Gasperini at Roma. Gasperini knows the forward well from their time together at Atalanta Bergamasca Calcio and has a strong appreciation of his attacking qualities.

Their previous working relationship in Bergamo was not without tension, but that has not prevented Gasperini from maintaining his regard for Lookman’s abilities.

Roma must now decide whether to turn their interest into a concrete offer, while Atletico de Madrid will have to determine whether they are prepared to let the forward depart. The January transfer window could give Lookman the chance to revive his season in a league he knows well.

Before then, Nigeria are due to play Tanzania in their third match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.