Inter president reveals deadline for Lookman transfer

Inter president Beppe Marotta has set a definitive timeline for their pursuit of Ademola Lookman, admitting their keen interest in the Nigerian. 

The Nerazzurri had a €40 million bid rebuffed by Atalanta for the Nigerian, as La Dea are holding out on €50 million, but the Champions League finalists were not discouraged and are expected to return with an offer of €45 million. 

In quotes relayed by Sempre Inter, Marotta admitted a long-standing interest in the Nigerian but explained that they had to maintain respect for Atalanta in their dealings. 

“I make no secret of the fact that I think Lookman is a great player,” he said. “Both from the recommendation of our scouting reach and also the coach.

“He’s certainly not a player we’re just discovering now. I think he’s a player on the radar of every big club, not just in Italy, but in Europe.

“But he’s still an Atalanta player right now. We have the utmost respect for Atalanta. And we’d be remiss if we were to interfere with them.”

Despite their keen interest, Inter will not let their pursuit of the Nigerian forward drag on for too long. Marotta said that he expected them to complete the deal in two to three days; otherwise, they will turn their attention towards other prospects. 

“Within 2-3 days, we’ll reach a conclusion to the talks between Inter and Atalanta,” he said.

“If the conditions are right and Atalanta are ready to sell him, obviously we’ll try to start concrete negotiations and maybe wrap up a deal.”