Tottenham Join Inter Milan in Race for Ademola Lookman

Tottenham Hotspur have entered the battle to sign Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, intensifying competition for his signature as Inter Milan edge closer to Atalanta’s €50m valuation, Sport360NG reports.

Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, reports that Inter have already had two offers turned down but remain resolute in their pursuit of the 27-year-old. The Nerazzurri are now prepared to return with an improved bid that aligns with Atalanta’s asking price, potentially including performance-related bonuses to sweeten the deal.

“Inter are ready to raise their offer to €50m, including add-ons, after initially proposing €45m,” the report noted.

The Serie A giants are also said to have reached a verbal agreement on personal terms with Lookman, reportedly offering a contract worth €4.5m annually through to 2030. Club executives are understood to be willing to wait up to 10 days to finalize the move, confident that the Nigerian international will honour the terms already agreed.

However, Inter’s hopes could be tested by renewed Premier League interest, with TEAMtalk revealing that Tottenham view Lookman as a potential alternative to Real Madrid’s Rodrygo in their search for a replacement for outgoing captain Son Heung-min.

Son is expected to complete a move to MLS side Los Angeles FC, prompting new Spurs boss Thomas Frank to initiate a reshaping of the club’s frontline. While Rodrygo remains Tottenham’s top target, his €90m+ price tag and Real Madrid’s reluctance to sell have led the north London club to explore other options.

“Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman has emerged as a viable Plan B, especially after the player formally submitted a transfer request,” TEAMtalk reported.

Lookman’s versatility and prior Premier League experience with Everton, Leicester City, and Fulham are seen as significant advantages, with Spurs scouts said to be impressed by his recent form. The winger hit a hat-trick in the 2023/24 Europa League final and netted 20 goals across all competitions last season, boosting his appeal to Premier League clubs.

In a further hint at a possible departure, Lookman has reportedly unfollowed Atalanta on Instagram, signaling his desire for a new challenge.

While Inter remain in pole position thanks to early negotiations and personal terms already in place, Tottenham’s financial strength and the player’s familiarity with English football could influence the outcome of the transfer battle.

Atalanta continue to stand firm on their €50m valuation and are reportedly holding out for a deal that could rise to €55m with performance-based incentives.

Elsewhere, Tottenham are also eyeing attacking reinforcements and are said to be pursuing a deal for Southampton youngster Tyler Dibling. However, Everton are reportedly in advanced talks to bring in the highly-rated teenager.