Napoli have reportedly identified Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman as their primary target to replace Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who joined Paris Saint-Germain in January, according to several Italian sources.
As reported by Cronache di Napoli, Lookman is currently top of the wishlist for Napoli’s sporting director Giovanni Manna, who is leading the club’s ambitious summer overhaul. The publication adds that following the departure of long-time Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini, Lookman’s future in Bergamo appears uncertain, making him an ideal fit for Napoli’s left wing—Kvaratskhelia’s former position.
“The presence of Lookman on Napoli’s shortlist clearly shows their intent to rebuild the attack,” the report states. “With Gasperini’s exit, the Nigerian forward’s continuity at Atalanta is in question, and in Naples, he’s seen as a natural successor to Kvaratskhelia.”
Europa Calcio echoes this, reporting that Lookman has emerged as Napoli’s leading attacking target. While no official bid has been tabled yet, the club is said to be “carefully evaluating” the 27-year-old, who finished a brilliant 2024 season with 20 goals and six assists.
However, Atalanta’s new head coach Ivan Juric may complicate Napoli’s plans. The former Torino boss made it clear during his first press conference that he wants to keep Lookman and Brazilian midfielder Ederson as key pillars of his squad.
“It’s going to be a tough season with strong competition,” Juric said, as quoted by Calcio Napoli. “The idea is to keep Lookman and Ederson. I haven’t asked for any players—not even the ones I’ve previously coached.”
Lookman has had a remarkable stint with Atalanta, netting 52 goals and providing 25 assists in 108 appearances. His standout moment came in May 2024, when he scored a hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, securing Atalanta’s first European title.
Atalanta have reportedly set a €50 million price tag for Lookman but are willing to negotiate, as long as offers don’t fall below €40 million.
“Lookman is now a priority for Napoli, but Atalanta won’t entertain any offers under €40 million,” Europa Calcio added. “The club recognises the Nigerian’s importance in their historic European success.”
With a reported €200 million transfer budget and Champions League football returning to Naples, Napoli are preparing a major squad revamp. Lookman’s ability to operate as both a winger and second striker aligns with the club’s tactical direction.
Il Mattino recently revealed that Napoli were preparing a formal offer for Lookman, viewing him as both a wide option and a potential central figure in attack—especially with Victor Osimhen’s likely departure expected to fund the deal.
Meanwhile, Juventus are also keeping tabs on Lookman, but only if they receive a substantial offer for Turkish talent Kenan Yildiz.
“The Bianconeri are monitoring Lookman’s situation but won’t make a move unless Yildiz is sold,” Europa Calcio reported. “Until then, Lookman remains Napoli’s number-one attacking priority.”
