Report: Man Utd in talks to strengthen attack with Serie A standout | OneFootball

Ademola Lookman Emerges as Key Target in United’s Offensive Overhaul

Manchester United’s misfiring front line has become the defining flaw of their dismal 2024/25 campaign. With just 39 goals in 34 Premier League matches, the team finds itself languishing in 14th place, a stark reminder that tradition counts for little when goals dry up. Amid the search for clinical reinforcements, CaughtOffside now reports that Ademola Lookman is at the centre of United’s plans to revitalise their attack.

United’s Pursuit of Firepower Hits Acceleration

Christopher Vivell, United’s director of recruitment, is said to be leading the charge for Lookman, whose 18 goals and seven assists this season for Atalanta are impossible to ignore. The Nigerian forward has matured into a devastating presence, blending acceleration, decision-making and end product with the sort of consistency United’s forwards have sorely lacked.

While Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have flattered to deceive — scoring a combined seven goals in over 30 starts — Lookman has proven his worth on both domestic and continental stages. His exploits helped Atalanta claim the Europa League title and propelled Nigeria to the AFCON final, culminating in a Ballon d’Or nomination.

United’s reported readiness to initiate talks speaks volumes. It also highlights just how far the club have drifted from the elite — they now look to players once deemed surplus to requirements at Everton to solve their problems. But this is a different Lookman now. As Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini put it, he is “a truly extraordinary player.”

European Competition for Lookman Heats Up

Barcelona have already made contact, and several Premier League sides — Chelsea, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Arsenal — are monitoring Lookman’s availability. With Atalanta placing a €60m–65m (£51m–£55m) price tag on his head, the financial commitment will not be minor. Juventus have already balked at the fee, and it remains to be seen whether United would stretch their budget to compete with the elite for a player who doesn’t naturally play as a central striker.

Photo: IMAGO

Interestingly, the pursuit of Wolves’ Matheus Cunha — whose £62.5m release clause has made him another summer priority — suggests that Lookman may be seen as a complementary piece rather than a leading man.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, this link to Ademola Lookman is a bittersweet one. On the one hand, there’s clear admiration for what he’s achieved — a late bloomer who’s built his game abroad, shown consistency, and now boasts experience in big tournaments. United could use more of that grit and know-how. He’s not flashy, but he’s effective. Just what’s needed when you’ve got attackers that can’t finish their dinner.

But on the flip side, there’s worry that this could be yet another case of United shopping after the fact — chasing a hot name because others are doing the same. Lookman’s stats are great, but is he really the forward to transform United into contenders again? Or is he just the best option available to plug another season of underperformance?

Many fans would welcome his arrival if it signals a broader tactical rethink. If he comes in alongside a proper no.9, with Cunha or another creative outlet behind, it feels more like a reset rather than a panic buy. But the club needs clarity, not just another exciting name to distract from deeper issues.

Ultimately, Lookman is a risk — but a far more calculated one than most United have taken lately.