Gasperini impressed with Lookman’s growth

Nigerian forward, Ademola Lookman, has been in impressive form since his move to Italian outfit Atalanta, leaving his boss Gian Pero Gasperini very impressed with the Nigerian, According Sports Extra reports.

The 26-year-old completed a €9m plus performance-related bonuses transfer from RB Leipzig to join the Nerazzurri in 2022, having spent the 2021/22 season on loan at Leicester City.

Before joining Atalanta, Lookman’s nine-goal contributions (five goals and four assists) in the 2017/18 season was his best return in front of goal but in his debut season with the Italian outfits, he scored a remarkable 13 goals with eight assists from 31 appearances.

So far this season, the Nigerian already scored eight goals while contributing another three assists in 21 games.

While his goal drought in UEFA competitions continues, having failed to net in Europe since December 2017, Gasperini has been quite impressed with Lookman’s development.

“We all see Lookman‘s potential and speed, but we must admit that he once didn’t play so offensively,” Gasperini said per Pazzi di Fanta after their 1-1 draw against Sporting CP in the Europa League on Wednesday.

“He used to score six or seven goals a year, while now he is quick, good at dribbling, and even strong with his head. I encourage him because every now and then, he hides from the game, but I believe that when he approaches the area, he can become a reference player for our team.”

Lookman has been very important for Atalanta this season and Gasperini will hope the Nigerian forward can continue with his impressive form as they push for a Champions League spot in the Serie A.

Atalanta are currently sixth on the log with 46 points, 26 adrift Inter Milan, who are top of the table and five points behind Bologna, who sit fourth on the Serie A standings.