Inter Milan are banking on Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman to force a move away from Atalanta as transfer negotiations between both Serie A clubs remain at a stalemate.
According to sources in Italy, Inter have already agreed personal terms with Lookman, who has accepted a four-year contract worth €4 million per season. The 26-year-old has also rejected a more lucrative offer from Napoli, underlining his desire to join the Nerazzurri.
However, a major obstacle remains: Inter’s €40 million bid has been rejected by Atalanta, who are holding out for €50 million. The Bergamo-based club has so far refused to budge, even dismissing Inter’s initial attempt to structure the deal as a loan with an option to buy.
Inter are now hoping Lookman himself will intervene by submitting a formal transfer request, which could help bridge the €10 million gap. Club officials believe his determination to leave will pressure Atalanta to reconsider their stance.
There are growing signs that Atalanta may be softening slightly. Although they remain firm on their valuation, insiders suggest the club could be open to a reduced fee, possibly €43–45 million, if Lookman explicitly signals his intent to depart.
Still, Atalanta are in a strong financial position and are not desperate to sell. The club recently earned €65 million from the sale of Mateo Retegui to Saudi side Al-Qadsiah, giving them little urgency to cash in on Lookman unless their terms are met.
With the new season approaching and Inter eager to finalise their squad, the coming days are likely to be crucial. Should Lookman make his intentions official, it could spark renewed negotiations and potentially unlock a late-summer breakthrough.
Inter have already made several signings this window, including Petar Sucic, Luis Henrique, and Ange-Yoan Bonny, but they see Lookman as a key attacking addition. For now, all eyes remain on the Nigerian international, whose next move could dictate the outcome of the deal.
