Lookman €40m transfer stalls as Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool reject Atalanta forward despite January window interest

Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool have rejected the chance to sign Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman despite Atalanta’s willingness to consider offers before the January transfer window closes.

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France based journalist Achille Ash disclosed that Lookman’s representatives contacted several Premier League clubs but received limited encouragement.

Ash said Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and Aston Villa were all approached.

Each of the five clubs declined the proposal, leaving West Ham United as the only English side showing concrete interest.

He added that interest in the forward is stronger outside England, with Inter Milan, Napoli, Atletico Madrid and Fenerbahce monitoring the situation.

Atalanta are understood to be open to negotiations but remain firm on their valuation of the 28 year old attacker.

Reports from Italy indicate the Bergamo club are demanding at least €40m to sanction a sale.

Lookman has scored three goals in 16 appearances across all competitions this season.

Atalanta are keen to keep him until the end of the campaign unless their asking price is met.

Interest from West Ham has intensified in recent days. Sky Sports transfer specialist Topskills Sports UK reported that the London club have contacted Lookman’s camp to assess the feasibility of a move.

The report said West Ham are eager to strengthen their attack, with Lookman identified as a priority target.

Italian outlet Football Italia also revealed that Fenerbahce are exploring a structured deal involving a €5m loan fee and a €37m obligation to buy.

West Ham’s pursuit is driven by struggles in front of goal this season.

The club have scored 24 league goals and sit five points behind Nottingham Forest despite a recent win over Tottenham Hotspur.

Manager Nuno Espírito Santo is believed to value Lookman’s Premier League experience from spells at Leicester City, Fulham and Everton.

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Fresh from helping Nigeria win bronze at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Lookman is expected to return to club duty shortly as speculation over his future intensifies.