Atletico Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur have opened the race to sign Nigeria international Ademola Lookman, following growing tensions between the forward and his Atalanta manager Ivan Juric, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Lookman has shown clear signs of wanting to leave Atalanta in the January transfer window after a heated touchline altercation with Juric during a recent European fixture according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.
The forward, who has been one of Atalanta’s most influential attackers, exchanged words with the coach after being substituted, leading to a public confrontation that required intervention from staff members.
Tottenham are reportedly leading the chase, viewing Lookman as a versatile attacking option capable of energising their front line. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid, who are seeking to strengthen their offensive depth, are also positioning themselves as strong contenders for his signature.
Lookman has made it clear that he could depart Atalanta in the next transfer window after a high-voltage incident with his coach,” Fichajes reported, adding that both Atletico Madrid and Tottenham are “closely monitoring the situation” ahead of January.
The publication said the incident has “made the atmosphere unsustainable” between player and coach, with the club’s board now open to considering offers.
Lookman is believed to be at an ideal point in his career for a move, with his current deal making a transfer feasible if Atalanta’s valuation is met.
The fallout deepened when Lookman unfollowed Atalanta on Instagram and deleted all team-related posts, actions that have intensified rumours about his future. A check by PUNCH Online confirmed the social media activity, which came just days after the on-field clash with Juric during Atalanta’s 1–0 win over Olympique Marseille.
Television footage captured the visibly angry forward as Juric grabbed his arm, prompting backroom staff to separate both men.
Speaking after the game, Juric downplayed the confrontation, saying it was simply “part of football’s emotional intensity”.
However, the forward’s recent actions suggest otherwise. Sources close to the player reportedly told Fichajes that Lookman remains unsettled and is seriously considering a move away from Bergamo.
The report added that Atalanta “could evaluate offers” in January if they meet the club’s expectations, as Lookman’s frustrations mirror previous transfer tensions from last summer, when a proposed move to Inter Milan collapsed over a €50m valuation.
Both clubs see the Nigerian forward as an experienced performer who can immediately adapt to top-level football. Fichajes wrote that Lookman “fits perfectly into the attacking profile” both clubs are seeking, with his pace, directness and proven track record across major European leagues.
Lookman played a key role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph last season, but his form this campaign has dipped amid growing off-field tension. With the winter transfer window fast approaching, the Nigerian international’s future in Italy looks increasingly uncertain as Atletico Madrid and Tottenham step up their pursuit.
