Ademola Lookman’s future at Atalanta has taken a dramatic twist after a heated clash with his manager, leaving the door wide open for a potential move to Tottenham Hotspur in January.
Spurs had shown strong interest in signing the Nigerian forward during the summer transfer window and even made an official offer to take him on loan with an option to buy.
However, Atalanta rejected the proposal at the time, hoping to keep one of their most dynamic attacking players. Now, just a few months later, circumstances may have shifted in Tottenham’s favor.
During Atalanta’s Champions League clash with Marseille on Wednesday night, tension between Lookman and his manager, Ivan Juric, erupted publicly.
The situation unfolded after Lookman was substituted in the 75th minute for Yunus Musah. The forward appeared visibly frustrated as he left the pitch, and things quickly escalated when Juric grabbed him by the arm and began shouting at him in front of the cameras.
Lookman looked shocked by his coach’s reaction, and as other staff members stepped in to separate the two, the fallout appeared to mark a breaking point in their relationship.
This confrontation has now fueled speculation that Lookman’s time at Atalanta could be coming to an end. Club insiders suggest that the forward is unsettled and may now push for a transfer in the January window.
Tottenham, who were already keeping close tabs on his situation, are expected to reignite their pursuit this time with a genuine chance of getting their man.
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank remains keen to add more attacking depth to his squad, especially someone who can play across the front line. Lookman fits that description perfectly.
The 27-year-old has proven his ability to operate effectively on both wings and even as a secondary striker, offering versatility that would complement Spurs’ current attacking options.
With the team still seeking a creative spark and more pace in the final third, Lookman’s skill set aligns well with the club’s ambitions for the second half of the season.
Sources close to the player have indicated that Lookman is open to a new challenge and would welcome the opportunity to play in the Premier League again, particularly under a coach like Frank who values fluid attacking football.
Tottenham’s sporting director, Fabio Paratici, is believed to be monitoring developments closely and could move quickly once the January window opens.
Lookman’s talent has never been in question. Since moving to Italy, he has evolved into one of Serie A’s most dangerous wide forwards. His direct running, ability to beat defenders, and eye for goal have been key to Atalanta’s attacking style.
Last season, he recorded double figures in both goals and assists, establishing himself as one of the most exciting African players in Europe.
However, his fiery exchange with Juric has now cast doubt over his future in Bergamo, and many believe Atalanta may decide to cash in while his market value remains high.
Reports from Italy suggest that Atalanta would prefer a permanent deal this time around rather than another loan offer, as they aim to reinvest the funds into strengthening their squad.
The Serie A side is expected to demand a substantial fee, but Tottenham’s recent financial boost and strategic focus on adding proven quality could make the move possible.
Bayern Munich also showed interest in Lookman last summer and could re-enter the race, but Tottenham’s concrete interest and the Premier League’s allure may give them an edge.
Spurs’ project under Thomas Frank, combined with Paratici’s persuasive track record in negotiations, could be enough to convince Lookman that North London is the right destination for his next chapter.
Beyond the Lookman saga, Tottenham’s January transfer plans appear to be gaining momentum. The club is also close to finalizing the signing of a highly rated teenage talent, who has already bid an emotional farewell to his current club ahead of his move to North London.
Additionally, Inter Milan defender Yann Bisseck has expressed interest in joining Spurs in 2026, while Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic remains a player Tottenham are keeping an eye on should he decide to leave Turin.
Still, it’s the Lookman story that currently dominates Spurs’ transfer headlines. His blend of pace, intelligence, and end product could make him an ideal addition to Tottenham’s forward line.
With the player now seemingly at odds with his manager and open to a Premier League return, the timing may finally be right for Tottenham to strike a deal that eluded them in the summer.
As things stand, Lookman’s future in Italy looks increasingly uncertain, and a January exit seems inevitable.
For Tottenham, this could be the perfect opportunity to strengthen their attack with a player hungry to prove himself once again on English soil.
If Paratici can pull this off, Spurs could add yet another game-changing talent to their ranks one capable of transforming tight games and bringing flair, goals, and energy back to the Tottenham frontline.
