Ademola Lookman vs Atalanta: Nigerian star cries foul with latest act in transfer war

The last has certainly not been heard of the increasingly messy transfer row between Ademola Lookman and Atalanta 

Ademola Lookman’s transfer dispute with Atalanta has headed for more downward spiral after the Nigerian forward missed training on Monday as tensions rise over a potential move to Inter Milan.

The 27-year-old was notably absent from the Serie A side’s first full session following their return from a pre-season friendly against RB Leipzig.

According to Il Napolista, Lookman also skipped his scheduled rehabilitation work as he recovers from a calf injury and was not present at a non-compulsory team lunch.

Although he trained alone at the weekend, his no-show on Monday has further fuelled speculation surrounding his growing dissatisfaction at the club.

The dispute stems from an alleged verbal agreement Ademola Lookman claims was made last summer, which he believes entitled him to leave Bergamo if a major club made an offer.

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In a strongly worded public statement on Sunday, the Super Eagles forward declared that he had officially submitted a transfer request, citing “broken promises” and “poor treatment.”

“After many months of broken promises and poor treatment, I feel enough is enough,” Lookman stated. “I can confirm I have now handed in a formal transfer request.”

Lookman had reportedly even asked to be left out of the Leipzig game to avoid injury as talks with Inter Milan gathered pace. The winger had also previously wiped all Atalanta-related content from his social media, signalling a breakdown in relations.

Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi responded by insisting that the club’s agreement with Lookman was conditional, and did not include a move to any Italian club.

“Last year, faced with a €20 million offer from PSG, the player asked us to sell him,” Percassi told reporters. “We agreed to do so under two conditions — he would only move to a top European club and not to any team in Italy.”

Lookman’s camp has denied any such restrictions, claiming the terms were never formally documented and accusing the club of backtracking.

Inter remain keen on signing the Nigerian international, but are wary of meeting Atalanta’s €50 million valuation. Talks between the two parties are expected to continue this week, with the former Serie A champions likely to test the waters again if Lookman’s standoff continues.

Despite the impasse, Atalanta have reiterated that any final decision will be made solely on their terms.

Lookman was Atalanta’s hat-trick hero in the 2024 UEFA Europa League final.