Man United learn asking price for 'extraordinary' player with more goals than Fernandes
Manchester United are among the clubs linked with a move for Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman.
The Red Devils are looking to bolster their attacking options in the summer and have joined the race to sign the Nigeria international.
They will compete for the former Fulham star’s signature with Premier League rivals Arsenal and Liverpool, as well as Italian giants Juventus.
However, Juventus could struggle to secure the forward described as ‘extraordinary‘ by manager Gian Piero Gasperini, as Atalanta reportedly prefer to sell him abroad.
This could hand United and their fellow domestic rivals an advantage in the race for his signature.
Lookman’s contract expires in 2026, and Atalanta are ready to sell him for £50 million, but the Italian side may be willing to accept a lower fee, according to Tuttomercatoweb.
The 27-year-old nearly forced a move to Paris Saint-Germain last summer, but an exit this time seems inevitable.
He he has shown no interest in extending his stay at the Gewiss Stadium and his relationship Gasperini has also deteriorated.
Gasperini publicly criticised him after a missed penalty in their Champions League play-off defeat to Club Brugge, calling him one of the ‘worst penalty takers’ he has ‘ever seen.’
Why Man United should move for Lookman
He has more goals than United’s leading goalscorer, Bruno Fernandes having registered 18 goals across all competitions. He would be a good addition.
Lookman has the attributes to thrive as a number 10 under manager Ruben Amorim. He can drift wide and exploit small pockets of space, making him a significant threat in the final third.
At £50m, he represents good value for money, and United should be able to meet his wage demands.
Currently earning £37, 080 weekly, Lookman will likely demand a pay rise, but his salary expectations should remain reasonable.
Lookman would also be an upgrade on United’s current attacking options in the number 10 role besides Fernandes.
A partnership with Fernandes as the number 10s could be a game-changer for the Red Devils.
Stats from transfermarkt.com & capology.com
Article written by Henry Thornton .