By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
Nigerian international and Europa League hero Ademola Lookman has sparked intense speculation about his future after fans noticed that he had wiped all Atalanta-related content from his official Instagram account — a move that appears to signal his intention to push for a transfer away from the Serie A side.
The sudden social media clean-up comes on the heels of mounting transfer rumors linking the 26-year-old winger with several top European clubs following his explosive 2024/2025 campaign, where he played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s historic Europa League triumph, including scoring a hat-trick in the final.
A Silent but Loud Statement
In a digital age where social media activity is closely watched, Lookman’s decision to remove every post related to Atalanta — including photos in the club’s jersey, match highlights, training snaps, and celebrations — has not gone unnoticed.
Fans and football analysts alike interpret the move as a strategic step toward a summer transfer, especially amid reports that clubs in the Premier League, La Liga, and Bundesliga are circling for his signature.
While Lookman has not made any official statement, insiders say he is eager to take on a new challenge and is “open to negotiations” with clubs competing in the UEFA Champions League next season.
“He feels he’s accomplished something historic with Atalanta,” a source close to the player revealed,
“but now he’s ready for the next chapter — ideally with a team competing for domestic and European titles.”
A Stellar Season That Raised His Stock
Ademola Lookman’s form last season was nothing short of electric. The Nigerian forward netted 15 goals and 7 assists in all competitions and became the first player ever to score a hat-trick in a UEFA Europa League final, when Atalanta defeated Bayer Leverkusen.
His performance earned him international praise, with analysts hailing his pace, composure, and versatility as qualities that would make him a valuable asset to elite European clubs.
Notably, Liverpool, Tottenham, RB Leipzig, and Atlético Madrid have reportedly shown interest, with Premier League return speculation particularly strong, given his prior stints with Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City.
Atalanta Remain Silent
So far, Atalanta have not issued an official response to Lookman’s social media activity or the swirling transfer rumors. However, sources within the club suggest they are preparing for the possibility of his exit and have already begun scouting replacements should a deal materialize.
The club, while keen to retain its top performers, is also open to lucrative offers that could help reinvest in the squad ahead of a new Serie A campaign and potential European outings.
Nigeria Watches with Interest
Back home in Nigeria, Lookman has become a fan favorite — especially after his standout performance for the Super Eagles in recent AFCON qualifiers. Many Nigerian fans are backing him for a move to a bigger club where he can compete at the highest level and shine in the Champions League.
Social media in Nigeria has been flooded with support for his rumored departure, with many urging him to return to England or join a club with greater visibility.
“He’s ready for the biggest stage,” one fan posted. “Let him go and dominate in the Champions League like he did in the Europa.”
What’s Next?
As the summer transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on Ademola Lookman and what his next move will be. While nothing has been confirmed, his Instagram purge has already sent a loud message: his time at Atalanta may be coming to an end.
Whether he heads back to the Premier League or explores a new league altogether, one thing is certain — Lookman is ready for a new chapter, and his next destination could reshape his career at the very top level.
