By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
Ademola Lookman, the dynamic forward for Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Italian club Atalanta, has stirred major headlines after skipping training in a bold attempt to push through a summer transfer. The 27-year-old, who enjoyed a stellar 2024 season highlighted by his Europa League heroics, is now at the center of a heated standoff between player and club.
Sources close to the situation confirm that Lookman deliberately chose not to report to training over the weekend, signaling growing frustration with Atalanta’s handling of his transfer request. The winger had formally asked to leave the club earlier this month, expressing disappointment over what he described as broken promises and poor treatment by the management.
At the heart of the matter is Inter Milan’s strong interest in signing Lookman. The Nerazzurri recently submitted an improved bid reportedly worth €45 million, which Atalanta swiftly rejected—insisting on a valuation closer to €50 million. Complicating matters further, Atalanta is reportedly unwilling to sell Lookman to another Serie A rival, preferring instead to entertain offers from foreign clubs only.
In a heartfelt public statement, Lookman thanked the fans and reflected on his successful stint at Atalanta but stated that the time had come for a new chapter. He said the club had previously assured him of a move if a suitable offer came in—an assurance he now claims has been disregarded.
His absence from training is widely seen as a calculated move to pressure Atalanta’s hierarchy into rethinking their position before the transfer window closes. The standoff has divided opinions, with some defending Lookman’s right to seek growth, while others question the wisdom of his current tactics.
Lookman’s contribution to Atalanta cannot be overstated—scoring over 50 goals in less than three seasons and becoming a fan favorite after netting a memorable hat-trick in the Europa League final. However, with tensions escalating and the club holding firm, it remains unclear whether his wish to join Inter Milan will materialize.
As the days count down to the end of the transfer window, all eyes are now on Atalanta’s next move—and whether they will budge or risk further alienation of one of their biggest stars.
