‘Someone like Lookman should always be signed’ – Vieri backs Inter move for Nigerian forward

Christian Vieri has thrown his support behind Inter Milan’s pursuit of Ademola Lookman, urging the Serie A champions not to hesitate over the player’s age.

The former Inter striker believes Lookman’s ability to impact games outweighs any concerns about his years.

Lookman, a 27-year-old Nigeria international, has been linked with a move away from Atalanta this summer following his impressive form last season.

Born in England to Nigerian parents, Lookman chose to represent the Super Eagles internationally, becoming a key figure in their recent campaigns.

While his age has sparked debate over Inter’s long-term planning, Vieri insists the club would be making the right call in signing him.

Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Vieri said: “I’d always lean more towards young players, because they always go at full speed.

“In Miami, I played padel with Nasser Al-Khelaifi, and he told me something that explains a lot: ‘Luis Enrique doesn’t want players over 28.’ I agree with Luis Enrique.

“But if Lookman has the experience, it’s a different story: he’s someone who makes the difference, he changes matches. Someone like Lookman should always be signed, if possible.”

Lookman scored decisive goals last season, including a hat-trick in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League final win over Bayer Leverkusen, further enhancing his stock in European football.

Vieri also commented on Inter’s new head coach Cristian Chivu, who steps up from youth coaching duties to take charge of the first team.

“Inter wanted a young coach with fresh ideas: Chivu is one, and he has them. But he would need more time than is usually given to Inter, Milan, and Juve in Italy: I hope they give it to him,” Vieri added.

Inter are expected to continue talks with Atalanta in the coming days.