Ademola Lookman’s stellar performances in 2024 have culminated in his crowning as the African Footballer of the Year, and the impact of that achievement is already being felt both on and off the pitch.
Just days after picking up the coveted award in Marrakech, Lookman’s market value has reached an all-time high, reflecting his exceptional form for Atalanta and the Nigerian national team.
From UEFA Europa League Glory to African Football’s Pinnacle
Lookman’s year has been a mix of personal and collective success. On the club front, his standout moment came in the UEFA Europa League final, where his sensational hat trick led Atalanta to a historic 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen.
That match not only secured Atalanta’s first-ever international title but also handed the German side their only loss of the season, solidifying Lookman’s reputation as one of the most lethal forwards in Europe.
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Despite his club triumph, Lookman’s international campaign ended in disappointment when Nigeria lost to Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations final.
However, his performances throughout the tournament and in the lead-up to the final highlighted his status as one of Africa’s finest talents.
Record-Breaking Market Value
The immediate impact of Lookman’s CAF best player award victory was felt in the transfer market. Just two days after his win in Marrakech, Transfermarkt confirmed that Lookman’s market value had soared from €40 million to €55 million — a remarkable rise that underscores his incredible season.
ADEMOLA LOOKMAN IS NAMED THE 2024 CAF MEN’S AFRICAN PLAYER OF THE YEAR 🇳🇬
🏆 Europa League winner
🏆 Atalanta Player of the Season
🏆 Named in Europa League Team of the Year
⚽️ Hat trick vs. Leverkusen in the Europa League final
⚽️ 18 G/A in Serie A last season
⚽️ 16 G/A in… pic.twitter.com/jsjMZkZQfu— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 16, 2024
This increase catapults the Nigerian winger into the top 10 highest-valued players in Serie A and elevates him to second place in terms of market worth among Super Eagles players, behind only Victor Osimhen, whose value stands at €75 million.
Lookman’s €55 million valuation now places him among the top African players, tied for third in the continent with Mohamed Salah and Nicolas Jackson, and just behind Osimhen and Achraf Hakimi.
Praise for Lookman’s Consistency and Skill
According to Jatin Dietl, Transfermarkt’s Area Manager for Italy, Lookman’s rapid rise is no accident.
“Lookman crowned his outstanding 2024 with the African Ballon d’Or, and rightly so,” Dietl said. “He has been in top form for months, leading Atalanta to the Serie A summit and clinching a historic international trophy with his hat trick against Leverkusen.”
Dietl went on to highlight Lookman’s key attributes: his goal-scoring instincts, dribbling ability, physical power, and mental resilience in key moments. “He is a player who thrives in important games and has a rare ability to deliver when it matters most,” Dietl added.
Transfer Rumors and Atalanta’s Price Tag
The rise in Lookman’s market value has already attracted attention from some of Europe’s top clubs, with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) reportedly showing interest.
However, Atalanta is under no pressure to sell their star asset, and according to reports, the Serie A club has set a €70 million asking price for Lookman — well above his current market value.
Given his pivotal role in Atalanta’s success and the club’s position at the top of Serie A, the Italian side is keen to retain Lookman for the long term, but will not hesitate to entertain offers that meet their valuation.
PSG’s interest, in particular, adds another layer of intrigue, with the Parisians always looking to strengthen their attacking options.
What’s Next for Ademola Lookman?
With his stock at an all-time high, Lookman now finds himself among the most coveted footballers in Europe.
Whether he stays at Atalanta or takes on a new challenge in a bigger league, the next chapter in his career will be one to watch closely.
His performances for club and country over the past year have demonstrated that he is not just a rising star, but a proven match-winner at the highest level.
For now, though, Lookman can savor the accolades and the recognition that have come his way. As the 2024 African Footballer of the Year, he has firmly placed himself among the elite of African football — and the best is likely yet to come.
