Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has entered elite company with a record-equalling display in one half of football, Soccernet.ng reports.
Lookman joins Chelsea's Cole Palmer and Atlético Madrid's Alexander Sørloth as the only players to register four goal contributions in a single half in Europe’s top five leagues during the 2024–25 season.
The 27-year-old enjoyed a standout campaign with Atalanta, scoring 20 goals and registering seven assists in 40 appearances across all competitions.
Lookman’s ability to rise to the occasion was evident throughout the season, scoring against Serie A giants Juventus, AC Milan, Roma, and eventual champions Napoli.
However, his most explosive moment came in Atalanta’s 6-1 demolition of Hellas Verona on October 26. Lookman was unplayable in the opening 45 minutes, scoring twice and providing two assists to help the Bergamo outfit surge into a commanding 5-1 lead by half-time.
According to StatMuse, only two other players matched that level of productivity in a single half: Palmer and Sørloth.
Palmer netted all four of Chelsea’s goals in the first half of a thrilling 4-2 win over Brighton in September, including a superb long-range free-kick and a penalty.
Sørloth, meanwhile, bagged a blistering four-goal haul inside 30 minutes as Atlético Madrid dismantled Real Sociedad 4-0 in May — including the fastest hat-trick in La Liga history.
While Palmer and Sørloth are expected to remain at their respective clubs, Lookman’s future is increasingly uncertain.
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Reports indicate that the Nigerian star could be on the move this summer, with Arsenal, Liverpool, Napoli, and Juventus all monitoring his situation.
Arsenal, in particular, are stepping up their interest and are said to have tabled a bid worth €50 million plus bonuses, including defender Jakub Kiwior as part of the package. Caughtoffside reports that Atalanta are holding out for between €65 million and €70 million.
Notably, Lookman was absent from Atalanta’s first day of pre-season training — a development that has further intensified speculation over his future.
Atalanta are reportedly keen to keep the reigning Africa Footballer of the Year and are considering doubling his salary while inserting a release clause in his new deal. However, Liverpool are also understood to be preparing a move for the dynamic winger, whose stock has soared over the last 12 months.
Lookman, who previously had spells with RB Leipzig, Fulham, and Leicester City, is attracting attention from Europe's elite — and after a season filled with big performances and historic moments, it’s easy to see why.
