In a recent interview, journalist Graeme Bailey revealed that Tottenham Hotspur are in talks to recruit Atalanta striker Ademola Lookman this summer. Bailey said,
“Lookman is hugely disappointed not to move to Inter, his head was in Milan and he put in a transfer request, which in itself is quite rare nowadays.
“But his people are looking at options and there are teams, big teams, in England who would be interested.
“Tottenham’s move for Savinho has stalled, Arsenal still haven’t got their new left winger, and Chelsea haven’t finalised the Garnacho deal yet.
“City might yet need to replace Savinho whilst Aston Villa have just sold Jacob Ramsey – it is not hard to see why Lookman’s people are in contact with these Premier League clubs.”
Lookman’s Impressive Form In Serie A
The Nigerian attacker enjoyed a decent run of form at Atalanta last season as he put in a string of productive displays for them on the offensive third of the pitch. Lookman netted 20 times and earned seven assists in 40 appearances for the Italian club in the previous campaign in all competitions.
The 27-year-old deserves credit for averaging 3.24 shots per 90 minutes in Serie A. He kept 39.5% of his shots on target. However, Lookman needs to improve his link-up play in the final third, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 72.5% in top-flight football (stats via fbref.com).
Should Tottenham Hotspur Boss Thomas Frank Get Lookman On Board?
Lookman can use his quickness to make some driving runs with the ball in the final third. He can strike the ball with power from long range and has got the vision to engineer a few promising chances for his teammates in and around the opponent’s penalty box.
The Nigerian talent is primarily a striker but can also fill in as a wide player on either flank if needed. However, there are some question marks over whether he can maintain his good form in the Premier League if Spurs manage to sign him this summer.
Lookman would add more firepower to Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank’s attack. He is good enough to compete for a regular starting place at the North London club this season.
At 27, Lookman is about to enter his prime soon. Thus, Spurs would be wise to get him on board in this summer transfer window.