Transfers: Atalanta join Leicester City in the race for London-born Super Eagles star

The King Power Stadium looked for a long while the only destination for one of Nigeria’s exciting wingers, but a new Italian suitor has entered the fray

Atalanta Bergamasca Calcio have joined the race to sign Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman, with the Italian Serie A side looking to beat Leicester City to the exciting attacker.

Leicester were the overwhelming favourites to land Lookman on a permanent deal this summer, having enjoyed the winger’s brilliance firsthand during his year-long loan spell this just-concluded campaign.

Lookman turned on the style at the King Power Stadium, scoring eight goals and providing five assists in 41 appearances across all competitions to earn the approval of manager Brendan Rodgers.

But recent reports from Germany suggest that the Foxes’ interest in the London-born forward has waned, and he is expected to return to parent club RB Leipzig where he will join up with preseason preparations next week.

But, according to Web Magazine 24, Atalanta are looking at several attacking options to reinforce their team and have identified Lookman as a possible quality addition.

While the Italian Serie A remains one of the most followed leagues in the world, the English Premier League is still Lookman’s preferred option.

German Bundesliga giants Leipzig, though, will do business with any interested party ready to cough out €16.5 million for the 24-year-old.