Tottenham’s pursuit of “spectacular” international forward takes yet another twist after sacking of former Premier League coach

Nigeria's Ademola Lookman. (REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko)

Tottenham’s fortunes have undergone a remarkable transformation.

After winning the Europa League yet somehow finishing 17th in the Premier League under Ange Postecoglou, Spurs looked directionless — fatigued, chaotic and struggling for identity.

But under new boss Thomas Frank, the team suddenly looks reborn.

They’re fifth in the table, defending with steel, creating chances freely and performing like a cohesive side again — despite injuries, and with neither Dominic Solanke nor Richarlison offering reliable goals.

Naturally, Spurs are searching for another forward, and their long-running pursuit of one particular attacker has just taken a dramatic new turn.

Ademola Lookman’s future at Atalanta has taken another unexpected shift, with Tottenham watching developments closely as the January window approaches.

TEAMtalk report that Lookman — long admired by Spurs — had seemed increasingly likely to push for an exit after his high-profile touchline clash with former manager Ivan Jurić during a Champions League tie. The incident fuelled belief he was edging toward the door, especially after Atalanta rejected Tottenham’s loan-with-option-to-buy offer late in the summer.

But the landscape has changed again.

Jurić, formerly of Southampton, has since been sacked, and new head coach Raffaele Palladino is said to be keen on restoring Lookman as a central figure in his plans. Atalanta aren’t commenting publicly on the rumours, but internally, the shift in management appears to have softened the club’s stance.

Nigeria international Lookman is under contract until 2027, meaning Atalanta will soon face a decision: extend his deal or consider bids — particularly if the 28-year-old pushes for clarity on his long-term role.

Tottenham will keep tracking the situation, with Frank still eager to add wide or hybrid forward options in the next two windows.

Lookman — described as “spectacular” by Jurić — offers versatility across the front line and has been outstanding since joining Atalanta, producing 53 goals and 25 assists in 128 appearances.

Should Atalanta fail to tie him down, Spurs may see their chance to strike.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.