“I believe it’s time” – FIFA U-17 World Cup champion endorses Inter Milan move for Ademola Lookman

Super Eagles attacker Ademola Lookman has recently piqued the interest of Serie A giants Inter Milan, who are vying for his signature…

Former Nigerian U17 international, Sambo Choji, has backed Ademola Lookman to leave Atalanta this summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

Choji, who was part of the Golden Eaglets that won the FIFA World Under-17 Championship in 1993 in Tokyo, stated that a move to Inter Milan would be the right step for the forward.

Lookman, who was recently crowned the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year following an impressive season with Atalanta, has been linked with a switch to Serie A giants Inter Milan.

Despite his form—which includes a Europa League-winning hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen and a tally of 52 goals and 25 assists in 118 appearances—Inter have reportedly offered just €40 million for the Nigeria international.

Speaking to Africafoot, the former Eintracht Braunschweig believes the timing is right for the 27-year-old to seek a new challenge.

“Lookman played really well for Atalanta and even helped them win the Europa League title two years ago. Since that incident with coach Gasperini after the missed penalty, I personally think his mind was no longer entirely on Atalanta. He remained professional and gave his best, but I believe it's time for a new challenge,” Choji said.

“Inter are a huge club, and they have the type of players who can get the best out of Lookman. I really hope the move goes through—it would benefit him both financially and in terms of his football career.”

Lookman’s valuation and salary discussions have drawn strong reactions, especially among Nigerian fans and public figures.

Rapper Odumodublvck publicly slammed the €40 million valuation, posting on X (formerly Twitter), “40 million for Africa’s best player? Over my dead body!”

Veteran Nigerian journalist Buchi Laba also weighed in, blaming the systemic undervaluation of Nigerian players in Europe.

“Nigerian players are severely underpaid in Europe because they don’t understand or know their worth. They make a specific amount of money and become so comfortable, like the clubs are doing them a big favour.
Look at the ridiculous wage Inter Milan are offering Ademola Lookman. A whole Africa best player of the year!!” Laba posted.

The undervaluation of Nigerian players has become a recurring theme. Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, who scored 37 goals in 41 appearances in a season, saw his valuation drop from €120 million to €75 million, with top English clubs reportedly reluctant to meet his wage demands.

Regardless, Choji still believes his countryman should make a move away from the Gewiss Stadium, and backs his Inter Milan switch.