Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has found himself under fire from Italian football legend Paolo Di Canio amid an ongoing transfer standoff with Atalanta.
Lookman, who scored 20 goals and registered seven assists in 40 appearances last season, has reportedly skipped team training in an effort to force a move to Inter Milan.
Speaking to Corriere Della Sera, Di Canio, who starred for clubs including West Ham, Napoli, and Lazio, condemned the Nigerian’s approach:
“In the Premier League they don’t even really know who Lookman is. Asking €50 million for him is over the top. But Atalanta are just doing their job.
The player, on the other hand, is behaving badly: you have to train with your team even if you want to leave. Show some integrity and be professional.”
He praised the Percassi family, owners of Atalanta, for resisting pressure to sell under unfavourable terms.
Transfer Tensions Boil Over
Inter Milan have had two offers, worth around €45 million, rejected, with Atalanta holding out for their €50 million valuation.
Arsenal and Napoli are also monitoring the situation, but the Bergamo club reportedly prefers selling to foreign clubs to avoid strengthening a Serie A rival.
Signed from RB Leipzig for €15 million in 2022, Lookman has now handed in a transfer request and is training alone. His absence from full team activities has heightened tensions as the summer transfer window edges towards its close.
Uncertain Road Ahead
Lookman believes he has earned the right to take the next step in his career after three standout seasons in Italy. However, Di Canio’s comments reflect growing frustration among Italian football circles, with the saga threatening to overshadow Atalanta’s preparations for the new campaign.
