Atalanta have identified Jonathan Rowe as their main target to replace Ademola Lookman, who is edging closer to a big-money move to Inter this summer.
According to multiple Italian outlets, including La Gazzetta dello Sport and TuttoAtalanta, the Serie A side are preparing for life after Lookman, with a deal worth €45 million on the table from Inter.
While the club has yet to officially accept the offer, the departure of their Nigerian star appears increasingly likely.
In response, Atalanta has begun exploring alternatives, and Olympique Marseille winger Rowe is at the top of their shortlist.
The club’s long-standing approach of targeting young, high-upside talent aligns well with Rowe’s profile, and the latest buzz around US betting sites has already picked up on the potential implications of a Lookman exit.
Who Is Jonathan Rowe?
Rowe, 22, rose through the ranks at Norwich City before moving to Marseille for around €16 million following an initial loan spell.
Despite limited starts in Ligue 1, he made an impact – contributing seven goals and assists combined across 28 appearances.
His performances for the England U21 side have also drawn attention, particularly after scoring the winner in the final of the U21 European Championship against Germany this summer.
The winger’s pace, dribbling, and versatility have reportedly caught the eye of Atalanta coach Ivan Juric, who views him as an ideal fit for his system.
Atalanta’s Plan for Replacing Lookman
While Lookman has undeniably been instrumental for Atalanta, the club typically operates with a shrewd recruit-develop-sell model.
That philosophy means they are rarely caught off guard by high-profile departures, and their swift move for Rowe is further proof.
Rowe is seen as a long-term project who fits into Atalanta’s preference for young, high-upside attackers. His potential transfer fee, estimated between €20–25 million, would be a manageable investment if Lookman’s sale to Inter goes through.
The club also considered other profiles, such as Federico Chiesa, but Rowe is preferred due to his age, affordability, and growth potential.
From a footballing perspective, Rowe brings similar qualities to Lookman – quick off the mark, creative in one-on-ones, and comfortable cutting inside from the left.
While he may not yet have Lookman’s end-product consistency, Atalanta have shown time and again they can polish raw gems into elite performers.
Jonathan Rowe Transfer News
Atalanta isn’t the only club interested. Leeds United, newly promoted to the Premier League, are also pursuing Rowe and reportedly willing to spend big.
They recently failed in a €35 million bid for Feyenoord’s Igor Paixao, turning their focus to Rowe instead.
Other suitors include Bournemouth and Roma, but Atalanta are hoping to move quickly before the competition intensifies.
Marseille are said to be open to selling but will not let the winger leave on the cheap.
The project in Bergamo, under Juric’s guidance, may offer the ideal platform for Rowe to take the next step.
