Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman has officially submitted a transfer request to leave Atalanta, expressing disappointment over unfulfilled promises from the club's management. The statement was made public on August 3, 2025.
In his official statement, Lookman said:
“Over the past three years at Atalanta, I’ve given everything, not just as a footballer but as a human being. I’ve worn the shirt with pride and represented the city of Bergamo with honor. There was an agreement with the club’s owners that I would be allowed to leave if a fair offer came in. Despite such an offer being presented, the club has decided to block my move for reasons I don’t understand. After months of broken promises and unfair treatment, I felt I had no choice but to speak. To the real heart of the club – the fans – I’m truly sorry that it has come to this. I hope we can find a peaceful resolution very soon.”
Inter Milan reportedly submitted a €45 million bid (including bonuses), which Lookman considers fair and in line with prior discussions. However, Atalanta is demanding €50 million, which has stalled the negotiations so far.
Lookman’s contract with Atalanta runs until June 2027, giving the Italian club leverage in the transfer talks.
Since joining from Leicester City in the summer of 2022, Lookman has scored 52 goals and provided 25 assists in 118 matches. He played a key role in Atalanta’s historic UEFA Europa League triumph in 2023–24, netting a hat-trick in the final. He was also crowned the 2024 African Player of the Year.
Opinion and Analysis
Despite the respectful tone of his statement, Lookman's words reveal a deep sense of frustration and broken trust. It’s clear that the relationship between the player and club leadership has reached a critical point.
My view:
- Submitting a formal transfer request was a calculated move by a player eager to take the next step in his career.
- While Atalanta has every right to set a valuation due to Lookman's contract running until 2027, forcing him to stay could lead to internal tensions.
- Inter Milan should act quickly or begin pursuing alternatives if Atalanta refuses to lower their asking price.
Quick Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Player | Ademola Lookman (27 years old) |
| Current Club | Atalanta |
| Contract Expiry | June 2027 |
| Transfer Request | Officially Submitted |
| Inter's Offer | €45 million + bonuses |
| Atalanta's Asking Price | €50 million |
| Key Achievements | Europa League Final Hat-trick, African Player of the Year 2024 |