Lookman’s beautiful goal could not save Atlanta against Napoli as the club looks for a replacement for Eagles forward

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman took matters into his own hands to draw Atalanta level with Napoli in Saturday evening’s thriller for 2-2, taking on four opponents with some cheeky footwork but the South Italy club eventually won 2-3.
The Nigeria international and African Player of the Year started the move in midfield when shaking off Giovanni Di Lorenzo, then ran at three opponents only to thread his finish through a sea of legs into the far bottom corner.
This was the fourth goal of a spectacular match at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo, after Mateo Retegui, Matteo Politano and Scott McTominay.
The Atalanta forward also found the net twice in their 3-0 victory away to Napoli back in November 2024.
Meanwhile, as the January transfer window progresses, Atalanta are seeking to bolster their attacking options. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has expressed a desire to enhance the squad’s offensive capabilities, particularly if key player Lookman opts to leave the club in the summer. With aspirations to compete for the top positions in Serie A and make a significant impact in the Champions League, Atalanta is exploring several promising targets.
Gasperini recently acknowledged the need for reinforcements in attack, stating that while the team is not under immediate pressure to make changes, they are open to opportunities that arise. The focus is on finding a player who can replicate Lookman’s dynamic playing style—someone capable of taking on defenders and creating scoring chances. With Mateo Retegui returning from injury and players like Gianluca Scamacca rejoining the squad, Atalanta has some depth in their forward line. However, they are still in search of a playmaker who can operate effectively as a trequartista or wide forward.
Several names have surfaced as potential replacements for Lookman. Among them are Rayan Cherki of Lyon and Julio Enciso from Brighton. Both players are young yet possess significant experience and potential, making them attractive options for Atalanta’s management.