Liverpool Set to Pursue Atalanta Forward as Salah’s Future Remains Uncertain | OneFootball

Lookman in Liverpool’s Sights: Will Salah’s Potential Departure Trigger Move?

As Liverpool prepare for what could be a transformative summer in the transfer market, sources have indicated that the club is considering Ademola Lookman as a key target to replace Mohamed Salah. With the Egypt international’s future at Anfield uncertain, Liverpool are reportedly placing Atalanta’s Nigerian forward at the top of their shopping list.

Salah’s Potential Exit and Liverpool’s Plans

According to TMW, Liverpool are making serious preparations in case Mohamed Salah departs at the end of the season. The report highlights that there is an understanding within the club that this could very well be Salah’s last season at Anfield, especially with his contract winding down and no new deal in place. While Liverpool would prefer to retain the services of their star forward, there are growing concerns that Salah may seek a new challenge, possibly elsewhere in Europe or in the Saudi Pro League.

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If Salah does leave, Liverpool will need to act quickly to fill the gap left by one of the Premier League’s most influential attackers. One option that has emerged is Lookman, who has impressed during his time at Atalanta. The winger’s form has drawn the attention of not only Liverpool but also a host of other top European clubs.

Lookman’s Impressive Atalanta Stint

Since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022, Lookman has been nothing short of sensational. The Nigeria international has netted 50 goals and provided 22 assists in 110 appearances, showcasing his knack for being involved in both scoring and creating opportunities. His contributions were pivotal in helping Atalanta secure their first-ever European trophy, with Lookman scoring a hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen in May 2024.

Lookman’s consistent excellence earned him the title of Atalanta Player of the Season in both the 2022-23 and 2023-24 campaigns. Furthermore, his impressive form has caught the eye of TMW, who note that the forward has been nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, reflecting his stature in European football. Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has also hailed Lookman as “a top player,” acknowledging his growth into one of the best in Europe.

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Liverpool’s Competition for Lookman’s Signature

However, Liverpool’s pursuit of Lookman will not be without competition. TMW reports that several other top clubs, including PSG, Arsenal, and Newcastle United, are also keen on signing the forward. Juventus have also made contact with Atalanta regarding Lookman’s availability, though they will only be able to proceed if they secure Champions League qualification.

For Liverpool, the opportunity to sign a player of Lookman’s calibre could be a key step in moving forward after the potential departure of Salah. However, with multiple clubs circling, the Reds may have to act swiftly and decisively if they wish to bring Lookman to Merseyside.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, the potential departure of Mohamed Salah is a difficult prospect. The Egyptian King has been integral to Liverpool’s success in recent years, and losing him would undoubtedly leave a significant void. However, if Lookman is indeed the man to fill that void, there’s a sense of cautious optimism. His performances at Atalanta have been outstanding, and his adaptability in both wide and central attacking roles could offer Liverpool the kind of flexibility they need.

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However, competition from other Premier League clubs like Arsenal and Newcastle United, alongside PSG, means that securing Lookman will not be straightforward. Liverpool must act quickly and ensure they present an attractive proposition for both the player and Atalanta. The potential signing of Lookman could signal a shift towards more dynamic and youthful attackers for Liverpool, which could complement Arne Slot’s evolving tactical approach.

While Lookman’s arrival may not be able to fully replicate Salah’s brilliance, his potential to grow into a top-tier forward under Liverpool’s guidance is exciting. If Liverpool are indeed serious about this move, they should not waste time in finalising a deal that could define their next chapter in the post-Salah era.