Ademola Lookman is back at Atalanta after a short absence, but his comeback has only deepened uncertainty around his future.
The Nigerian forward reported to the club’s training ground earlier than expected, but he was banished from the first team and was not allowed to train with them.
Instead, he has been placed on an individual training schedule while officials decide what comes next.
The forward had recently pushed for a move to Inter Milan, even stating he no longer wanted to play for Atalanta.
Talks between the clubs fell apart when a deal could not be reached. His actions left the Serie A side frustrated, leading to his separation from full team sessions despite his return.
Arsenal Link Loses Momentum
There had been strong whispers that Arsenal might swoop in for the winger. However, reports from England now claim that the London club has ended interest in signing him.
The Gunners, on Wednesday night, agreed a deal to sign Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze in a transfer worth more than £60 million.
The move shocked many as the forward was widely expected to join Tottenham before Arsenal stepped in and hijacked the deal.
With Eze set to move to London, the door for Lookman appears to have closed.
This comes as a blow to the player, who was hoping for a fresh start in the Premier League after Milan’s move collapsed.
His outstanding season last year, which saw him score 20 goals in all competitions, had boosted his market value.
Yet with Arsenal no longer an option and Inter Milan talks dead, Lookman faces an unclear path.
What Happens Next for Lookman?
For now, Lookman will remain under a separate training plan at Atalanta. Italian reports suggest this could continue until early September.
The club may also impose internal sanctions for his earlier refusal to train, though no official statement has been released.
Coach Ivan Juric has not confirmed whether the forward will rejoin the main group or play a role in upcoming matches. The situation leaves the Nigerian international in limbo with just weeks before the season gains full momentum.
Lookman’s decision to force a move may have backfired, putting his place at Atalanta under threat while closing off key transfer opportunities.
Unless a resolution is found soon, one of Serie A’s standout performers from last season could be left watching from the sidelines.
