Liverpool's SECRET weapon in Ademola Lookman transfer talks

Transfer noise surrounding Ademola Lookman is increasing as we approach the summer window.

The 27-year-old is widely expected to depart Atalanta following a successful spell at the club, with his current contract expiring in 2027 and no signs of a new one on the horizon.

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Having joined La Dea to no great fanfare back in 2022 from RB Leipzig, Lookman has gone on to win the Europa League as well as the African Football of the Year award.

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He’s scored 51 goals in 115 games for the club, establishing himself among the best attackers in the Italian top flight. The Nigeria international is now in demand by several of Europe’s top clubs - with Liverpool reported to be among that number.

Napoli and Juventus are listed as the interested teams in Serie A - while Arsenal and Manchester United are also reportedly in the hunt.

But Liverpool have got something - or more accurately someone - that Atalanta want. And it could provide the Reds with an edge in negotiations over Lookman.

Atalanta want Chiesa

Federico Chiesa, 27, is a wanted man around Serie A. Atalanta are among the team said to be keen on bringing him home after a difficult first season on Merseyside.

It’s been claimed in the Italian media that Liverpool could get favourable negotiations for Lookman if Chiesa’s name was brought into the equation.

“Chiesa's name had already been linked to Atalanta in the January transfer window, when the Reds dreamed of immediately bringing Ademola Lookman to Anfield Road, but the Nerazzurri management did not want to lose their jewel in a crucial phase of the season,” reads a report in Quotidiano Sportivo.

“In the summer, Liverpool will return to the attack for the African golden ball winner, also courted by Arsenal and United, as well as Juventus and Napoli. And Atalanta will not make any discounts: Lookman is quoted at €60 million. However, the Reds could include Chiesa in the exchange.”

Could Chiesa bring Liverpool to the front of the queue for Lookman?

It’s difficult for Italian teams to match the Italian’s current salary - estimated at £140k per week - so perhaps an initial loan deal with Liverpool covering part of his wages could bring the Reds to the front of the queue for Lookman.

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Liverpool will clear the decks this summer with Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez also under consideration for sale.

A talent like Lookman - who usually plays from the left but who can also play right wing as well as off a front man - would be a very useful acquisition.