Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi has stated that Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman can leave the club this summer, but only under conditions that ruled out a move to another Serie A side, including Inter Milan.
Lookman, a key figure in Atalanta’s historic UEFA Europa League success in the 2023/24 season, has grown increasingly frustrated with the club’s refusal to accept Inter Milan’s recent offer, reportedly valued at €42 million plus €3 million in add-ons.
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The 27-year-old has since submitted a formal transfer request and removed all Atalanta-related content from his social media accounts.
In an Instagram post, Lookman accused Atalanta of going back on a previous promise to allow him to leave if a fair offer was received. He cited “broken promises” and “poor treatment” as both a professional and a human being, further escalating the standoff.
Read Also: Italian clubs’ mishandling of Nigerian stars: Osimhen and Lookman transfer sagas
Speaking at the unveiling of new goalkeeper Marco Sportiello, Percassi clarified the club’s position.
“Last year, after receiving a €20 million offer from PSG, the player asked to be sold. As a credible club, Atalanta promised he could leave this summer, but under two conditions he requested: that it be to a top European club and that he would not join another Italian team,” Percassi told reporters.
He emphasised that the club intends to uphold those conditions.
“The situation today is different. While we carefully evaluate the timing and value of our players, the final decision ultimately rests with Atalanta,” he added.
Atalanta are reportedly holding out for €50 million, a valuation that Inter have yet to meet. The club believes its stance has been misrepresented despite staying true to the agreement made with the player.
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