Why Bayern Munich's deadline day move for Lookman was

Having failed to land several attacking targets over the summer, particularly with Nick Woltemade joining Newcastle United, Bayern turned their attention to the 27-year-old in the closing hours of the transfer window. 

The German champions reportedly submitted a loan offer with an option to buy worth €28 million. However, Atalanta did not even respond, holding out for their initial €50m price tag despite Lookman being keen on the move. 

Bayern, meanwhile, opted for Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson on loan, leaving Lookman’s situation in Bergamo unresolved. The Nigerian had already voiced discontent with the club earlier this summer, accusing them of “broken promises” after blocking a move to Inter Milan, who had tabled a €45m bid. 

Lookman joined La Dea from RB Leipzig and remains a central figure at the club, scoring 52 goals in 117 appearances. He enjoyed a standout 2023-24 campaign, helping them to Europa League glory after netting a historic hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. 

Despite his ongoing feud with Atalanta, the reigning African Footballer of the Year was named in their Champions League squad and could yet be reintegrated into the team after the international break. Ivan Juric’s men face Lecce in Serie A on Sunday, 14 September, before battling Paris Saint-Germain three days later in their opening game in the league phase of the Champions League.