Ademola Lookman has taken a decisive step in his desire to leave Atalanta, formally requesting a transfer amid growing tension between the player and the club.
The Nigerian forward, who has been a central figure in Atalanta’s rise in recent seasons, is now determined to join Inter Milan this summer, a move he describes as the next step in his career. However, Atalanta remain unmoved, insisting that only a significant offer will be enough to release their star.
The saga began to intensify this week after Inter submitted a 42 million euro bid, with an additional 3 million in bonuses. Atalanta swiftly rejected the proposal, labelling it insufficient. In response, Lookman broke his silence with an emotional and direct message posted on social media, where he expressed both gratitude and disappointment.
In the last three years at Atalanta, I have given my all, not only as a footballer but as a person, Lookman wrote. I have always worn the shirt with pride and tried to represent this club and the city of Bergamo with heart, passion and dedication. Winning the Europa League and celebrating with my teammates and our fans in Dublin will remain one of the proudest moments of my career.
He went on to explain that while his commitment to Atalanta has never wavered, he now feels that the time is right to pursue a new challenge. Lookman claimed that there was a mutual understanding with the club’s leadership that he would be allowed to move if a fair offer was presented. Despite this, he now believes that the club is preventing the transfer without justification.
After many months of unfulfilled promises and what I feel has been an inappropriate way of dealing with me as both a professional and a person, I have no choice but to speak openly, he said. I can confirm that I have submitted a formal transfer request.
Lookman’s message was not only a farewell letter but also a plea for understanding, particularly aimed at the fans.
To the supporters, the heartbeat of this club, I am truly sorry that it has come to this, he added. I hope you can understand how difficult this situation is. All I want is a fair resolution, and I hope we can work together to find a solution that respects all parties involved.
Despite Lookman’s public appeal, Atalanta president Antonio Percassi has made it clear that the club will not be pressured into selling unless their valuation is met. While they have not publicly disclosed a price tag, sources close to the negotiations suggest the Bergamo side are holding out for an offer in the region of 50 million euros.
Inter now face a crucial decision. The Milanese club must decide in the coming days whether to increase their offer or move on to other targets. The next 48 to 72 hours will be key in determining whether a deal can be reached or if Lookman’s hopes of a move to San Siro will be delayed further.
As it stands, Atalanta are standing firm, relying on a contract that still ties the player to the club. But Lookman’s stance has never been clearer. His time in Bergamo appears to be reaching its end. Now the ball is in Inter’s court.
