Ademola Lookman: African Player of the Year 2024, $25M in Career Earnings and Rising

Many Nigerians first heard about Ademola Lookman when he played for the nation in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Now the whole country and every football fan in Africa know the 27  year old striker after he won African Player of the Year 2024 on December 16.  His rise to stardom is a story of grit, talent, and strategic career moves. From humble beginnings to becoming one of the highest-paid African footballers, Lookman’s journey offers insights into the modern football economy. This profile examines his background, club career, net worth, and likely earnings trajectory.

Ademola Lookman was born on October 20, 1997, in Wandsworth, London, to Nigerian parents. Growing up in a football-loving household, he showcased a passion for the game from a young age. His footballing skills were honed on the streets and local pitches, where his quick footwork and ability to dribble past defenders became evident. Lookman’s break into professional football came through the youth ranks of Charlton Athletic, where his potential quickly caught the attention of bigger clubs.

1. Charlton Athletic (2015-2017)
   • Transfer Fee: Youth academy graduate
   • Weekly Salary: Estimated at £2,000 per week
   • Achievements: Made 49 appearances, scoring 10 goals and assisting 3 times
   • Impact: Became a standout performer, drawing attention from Premier League scouts
2. Everton (2017-2020)
   • Transfer Fee: £11 million
   • Weekly Salary: £20,000 per week initially, later increased to £30,000
   • Achievements: Scored on his debut against Manchester City
   • Impact: Despite moments of brilliance, Lookman’s progress stalled due to limited playing time under various managers.
3. RB Leipzig (Loan 2018; Permanent 2019-2021)
   • Transfer Fee: €18 million (when deal made permanent in 2019)
   • Weekly Salary: £40,000 per week
   • Achievements: Contributed to Leipzig’s success in the Bundesliga and Champions League
   • Impact: Although Leipzig had high expectations, Lookman struggled for consistent game time.
4. Fulham (Loan 2020-2021)
   • Loan Fee: £1.5 million
   • Weekly Salary: £40,000 per week (paid jointly by Fulham and Leipzig)
   • Achievements: Memorable performances, though Fulham was relegated
   • Impact: Lookman’s form reignited interest in his potential from top European clubs.
5. Atalanta (2022-Present)
   • Transfer Fee: €15 million
   • Weekly Salary: £70,000 per week
   • Achievements: Scored 20+ goals in his debut season in Serie A, leading to the 2024 African Player of the Year award
   • Impact: Lookman’s time at Atalanta has been transformative, showcasing his ability to be a leading player in a major European league.

• Charlton Athletic (2015-2017): Approximately £156,000 total earnings
• Everton (2017-2020): Approximately £4.68 million in total wages
• RB Leipzig (2018-2021): Approximately £6.24 million in total wages
• Fulham (Loan 2020-2021): Approximately £1.56 million in total wages
• Atalanta (2022-Present): Approximately £7.28 million in wages so far
• Endorsements and Sponsorships: Estimated to contribute around $2 million annually to his net worth

Total Career Earnings: Approximately $25 million (includes wages, endorsements, and bonuses).

While Lookman’s career trajectory is on the rise, his total earnings and net worth still lag behind stars like Victor Osimhen and Mohamed Salah. His relatively late breakthrough at Atalanta has limited his earnings potential in earlier years, but with his status as African Player of the Year, Lookman’s marketability has increased substantially.

Lookman’s future earnings are set to rise significantly. With his 2024 African Player of the Year win, he is poised to attract higher-paying contracts, performance bonuses, and endorsements. If he continues his goal-scoring exploits, Lookman’s weekly salary could increase to around £100,000 or more, especially if he moves to a wealthier club in the Premier League or a top La Liga side.