Atlético eye Lookman as Griezmann’s replacement

The La Liga giants, Atlético Madrid, are considering a move for Nigeria international, Ademola Lookman, as one of the possible replacements for French star Antoine Griezmann,

The reigning African Player of The Year has been a subject of transfer speculation following his remarkable form since joining Atalanta for €10m in 2022.

Lookman was heavily linked with several top European clubs during the summer transfer window, including Paris Saint-Germain. Atalanta, however, managed to keep hold of their star player but the Super Eagles forward continues to attract interest from European clubs.

The eleven-time Spanish La Liga champions are the latest club to be linked with the Nigerian with Diego Simeone in the market for a player to replace Griezmann.

Like Lookman, the 33-year-old’s contract at the Wanda Metropolitano expires in the summer of 2026, but there are reports that he might leave for the Major League Soccer in America at the end of the 2024/2025 season.

Fichajes reports that the club’s hierarchy has started work as they begin the search for an ideal replacement for the club’s legend, adding that Lookman is one of the players targeted by the club.

“The possible departure of Antoine Griezmann to the MLS at the end of the season forces the club to seek a reliable replacement. The club’s board is working on the signing of a forward who not only fills the void left by the Frenchman but also forms a high-impact partnership with Julián Álvarez.

Three names stand out on the list of candidates: Lautaro Martínez, Alexander Isak, and Ademola Lookman,” the website wrote.

“The most accessible option is Ademola Lookman, a winger from Atalanta, who has shined with 14 goals and seven assists this season. His contract ends in 2026, potentially easing his departure for a lesser amount compared to the other candidates.”

Lookman is currently valued at €55m by Transfermarkt, and is a relatively cheaper option to Isak and Martinez.

Meanwhile, Atalanta have slapped a €60m price tag on the former Everton forward amid growing interest from several European clubs.

Filling Griezmann’s shoes will be a big task for any player. The 33-year-old Frenchman has been an integral part of the Simeone side that made the Rojiblancos a force to be reckoned with in Spain and Europe for the last decade scoring 196 goals and providing 90 assists in 423 games.