Atalanta Standoff: Lookman Demands Inter Move as Talks Stall

As of August 7th, 2025, the transfer saga between Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman and Inter Milan has reached a critical juncture, with just two weeks remaining before the start of the 2025/26 season.

The 27-year-old Nigerian international and Inter have reportedly reached an agreement on a five-year deal worth €4.5 million per year. However, Atalanta has so far rejected Inter's offers, with the latest bid of €42 million plus €3 million in add-ons deemed too low by the Italian club.

Lookman has now taken matters into his own hands, releasing a public transfer request through social media outlets. The player has expressed his desire to leave Atalanta, claiming that the club broke promises made to him the previous year when a move to Paris Saint-Germain collapsed.

Atalanta's president, Luca Percassi, has addressed the situation, stating that the club had made a "moral commitment" to Lookman but on their own terms. These terms included selling the player only to a top European club and, within Italy, only to Atalanta.

The situation has become increasingly tense, with Lookman missing three consecutive training sessions in Zingonia. Atalanta is now considering fining the player, as his contract with the club runs until 2027, with a unilateral option to extend it until 2028.

Despite the public drama, Atalanta remains firm in its stance, insisting that the transfer fee must be on their terms. The club has a history of extracting high valuations for their players, as seen in the recent €70 million sale of Retegui.

With Inter's current offer deemed too low, Atalanta is willing to wait for potential offers from abroad, which remain the club's priority for a Lookman transfer. The ball is now firmly in Inter's court, as they must decide whether to meet Atalanta's valuation or risk losing out on their primary target.