Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad are preparing a substantial offer to lure Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman to the Middle East.
The proposed deal would make the Atalanta star the highest-paid Nigerian footballer, according to reports.
Lookman, who played a pivotal role in Atalanta Bergamo’s Europa League triumph last season, is a prime target for Al Ittihad.
Since he arrived in Italy, the 26-year-old former Everton winger has had two impressive seasons, contributing to 50 goals in 78 appearances for La Dea, scoring 32 and providing 18 assists. The Nigeria international also netted a superb hat-trick in a 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final.
According to transfer expert Rudy Galetti, Lookman’s current annual salary at Atalanta is €2.3 million. Reports indicate that he has agreed to join Al Ittihad following their second offer.
The Saudi Pro League side have reportedly offered Lookman a salary of $15 million per season (around €13.89 million), which would surpass Victor Osimhen’s current earnings of €12.82 million with Napoli.
“Al Ittihad increased the offer for Lookman and sent a new proposal set at $15 million per season,” Galetti said on his X account. “The player gave his informal approval. Now it’s up to the clubs: Atalanta are asking for more than the $35 million bid received for the striker. Open talks with the team.”
Lookman was also voted Atalanta’s Player of the Season for 2023/24, marking the second consecutive year he has received this honour.
Following his eye-catching performances, the former Leicester City winger has been linked with a return to the Premier League, with Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea all reportedly willing to make an offer for the Nigerian winger.
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