A significant transfer saga is unfolding in Bergamo as Nigerian international Ademola Lookman has formally requested to leave Atalanta, citing "broken promises" and "poor treatment" from the club. The request comes amid intense interest from Serie A rivals Inter Milan.
Lookman, the hat-trick hero of Atalanta's historic Europa League triumph, made the announcement in a public statement on his Instagram account. He claimed that despite an agreement with the club's ownership that this summer would be the right time to move on if a "fair offer" arrived, Atalanta is now blocking a potential transfer.
The situation has escalated with reports that Lookman has missed consecutive pre-season training sessions and has even cleared his locker at the club's training ground, a move described by Sky Sport Italia as a "total break-up" between the player and the club.
Inter Milan has been at the forefront of the transfer speculation, with multiple bids reportedly being rejected by Atalanta. The latest offer from the Nerazzurri is believed to be around €45 million, falling short of Atalanta's reported €50 million valuation.
Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi has confirmed there was an informal agreement for Lookman to leave, but only for a "top" club outside of Serie A. This stance directly complicates a move to Inter and has become a central point of contention in the ongoing dispute.
Lookman joined Atalanta in 2022 and has since become a crucial player, scoring 15 Serie A goals last season and leading the club to their first major trophy in over 60 years. His performances have also made him a key figure for the Nigerian national team and the reigning African Player of the Year.
While Inter remains the most likely destination, other top clubs, including Atlético Madrid and several Premier League teams, have been linked with the 27-year-old winger. The outcome of this transfer standoff remains uncertain, but it is clear that Lookman is determined to force a move away from Bergamo.