Spanish giants Real Madrid have entered the race for Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian forward currently lighting up Serie A with Atalanta. With Vinicius Junior potentially on his way out, the Champions League holders are eyeing Lookman as a possible replacement at Santiago Bernabeu.

Lookman has been sensational since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022 for €9.35 million plus bonuses. Over 90 appearances, he’s scored 39 goals and delivered 23 assists, attracting interest from Europe’s elite clubs. The 27-year-old nearly joined Paris Saint-Germain this past August, with reports indicating personal terms were agreed, but Atalanta held on to their star forward.

Last season, Lookman’s impressive stats included 17 goals and 10 assists across 45 games, with a standout performance in the Europa League final where his hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen secured the trophy for Atalanta. This season, Lookman’s form remains strong, as he’s already netted seven goals and added five assists in just 12 appearances.

Despite retaining Lookman over the summer, Atalanta may soon face pressure to sell as top clubs line up for his signature. Real Madrid’s interest intensifies as Vinicius Junior could be on his way to Saudi Arabia, with Al-Hilal reportedly preparing a record-breaking €300 million bid for the Brazilian. Such a fee would eclipse Neymar’s €222 million transfer from Barcelona to PSG in 2017.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes via El Futbolero, Real Madrid sees Lookman as a prime candidate to fill Vinicius’s shoes if he leaves. Lookman’s skillset aligns with the demands of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad: his versatility on both wings, pace, dribbling prowess, and ability to create scoring opportunities make him a seamless fit for Madrid’s attacking style.

“Faced with uncertainty over Vinicius Jr.’s contract renewal, the Merengues have set their sights on a promising Serie A talent,” noted a Spanish report. “Lookman’s qualities make him an ideal candidate for Real Madrid’s attack, offering both depth and creativity on the flanks.”

Lookman, currently valued at €60 million per Transfermarkt, would be a feasible investment for Los Blancos. Recently recognized as the 14th best player in the world at the Ballon d'Or ceremony in Paris, Lookman is also the favorite for the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award.

With Real Madrid closely monitoring the situation, it’s clear Lookman could soon become the latest Nigerian star to grace the Bernabeu.