Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman is at the center of a tense transfer standoff between Atalanta and Inter Milan.
The 27 year old wants to leave Bergamo and join the Italian champions, but his club is standing firm. Atalanta have turned down three separate offers from Inter and have made it clear they will not sell to another team in Italy.
Lookman has been a key figure for the club, scoring 52 goals and providing 25 assists in 118 matches.
Despite his contributions, he is eager to start a new chapter and has already cleared his locker at the club. He has stopped training with the squad and returned to England to be with his family.
Price Tag Set at 55 Million Euros
Reports from Italy say Atalanta are willing to let Lookman leave, but only for a fee of 55 million euros. This high price has caused Inter Milan to step back from the deal.
The club sees no reason to lower the fee, especially since they already have a replacement for the player.
Atalanta have also been active in the market, bidding 40 million euros for Fulham’s Brazilian striker Rodrigo Muniz.
Talks are ongoing, and Fulham are also in contact with Sadiq Umar as they prepare for possible changes in their attack.
Time Running Out for All Parties
The situation is now at a standstill. Lookman wants out, Inter are unwilling to pay more, and no foreign clubs have made an official offer.
His agents are expected to return to Italy to try to push the move forward, but the transfer window clock is ticking.
Atalanta remain calm, confident that they are in control.
For now, the forward who helped them win the Europa League last season is stuck between staying where he no longer wants to be and moving to a club that cannot meet his price.
