Manchester United‘s potential pursuit of an additional attacking option has emerged as a significant point of interest, with reports suggesting that they may prioritize this in the upcoming transfer windows. This follows recent developments that cast doubt over the futures of key forwards Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford, who were both absent from the squad for United’s recent match against Manchester City. Their absence has fueled speculation about their roles at Old Trafford, raising the possibility of changes to United’s attacking lineup.
In the match against Manchester City, Mason Mount was deployed in a more advanced role just behind the striker, alongside Amad Diallo. However, Mount was substituted in the first half due to injury, adding further uncertainty to his position in the team. Given these concerns, particularly the uncertainty surrounding Mount’s fitness, it is believed that United may be seeking to add another attacking option to bolster their squad.
In line with this, a report from Sky Sports indicates that Manchester United has initiated contact with the representatives of Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman. The Nigerian winger, who could be available for a transfer fee around €50 million (£41 million), is reportedly on the move, as Atalanta is willing to sell him if a suitable offer is made. The report suggests that other top clubs, including Liverpool, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain, are also interested in securing Lookman’s services.
Lookman, 27, has had a remarkable year with Atalanta, earning the prestigious African Ballon d’Or 2024 award after a standout performance in 2023. One of his key achievements was scoring a hat-trick in Atalanta’s Europa League final victory over Bayer Leverkusen. This season, Lookman has been in superb form, contributing 12 goals and assists in just 11 Serie A starts. His performances have enhanced his reputation, leading to heightened interest from multiple clubs.
Before his success in Italy, Lookman struggled to make an impact in the Premier League. After coming through the youth ranks at Charlton Athletic, he had stints with Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City, but his time in England was largely underwhelming. Since moving to Serie A, however, he has blossomed into a more dynamic and influential player.
It remains to be seen whether Lookman could replicate his Italian form in the Premier League, but there’s no doubt that his growth as a player since leaving England has been impressive. Manchester United, alongside their competitors, will likely weigh the potential of Lookman to significantly strengthen their attacking options moving forward.