I’ve taken my game to new level – Lookman

Ademola Lookman says his impressive performances in the past two years with Serie A side Atalanta have helped him reach new heights in his career, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The 27-year-old, who finished 14th in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings, told the BBC he has developed more confidence in his abilities.

“I have the confidence in my ability to create, to score goals, to help my teammates, to assist them. In the past two years, I believe I have been able to take my game to a new level and show that on a more consistent basis,” Lookman said.

The winger’s remarkable season peaked when he netted a historic hat-trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final in May, securing the club their first European trophy.

His has continued in his rich vein of form in the 2024/25 campaign, scoring eight goals and providing five assists, attracting interest from European giants including Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal.

The former RB Leipzig player, who joined Atalanta in 2022, is now set for a bumper new contract with the Black and Blues, who look to ward off suitors.

According to recent reports, Atalanta have offered to increase Lookman’s current €2.3m annual salary to €3.5m in a deal that would keep him at the Bergamo club until 2027, making him one of their highest-paid players.

The Nigeria international reportedly agreed personal terms with PSG in the summer before Atalanta blocked the move.

His continued impressive performances have made him a strong contender for the CAF Men’s Player of the Year award and will possibly succeed Nigeria teammate Victor Osimhen at the next CAF Awards.

Lookman’s 14th-place finish in the Ballon d’Or rankings, ahead of several elite players, made him the highest-ranked African player in this year’s prestigious award.