Ademola Lookman: Atalanta CEO confirms exit plan for CAF POTY

Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi has confirmed that Nigerian star Ademola Lookman could be on his way out of Bergamo this summer.

Speaking to the media, Percassi acknowledged the forward’s desire to leave and confirmed that Inter Milan have now submitted their first official bid.

Ademola Lookman’s future at Atalanta appears to be heading toward a new chapter, with club CEO Luca Percassi openly admitting the 2024 CAF Player of the Year is on the verge of an exit.

Speaking during the presentation of new signing Honest Ahanor, Percassi revealed that Lookman has been “expressing a desire to leave for some time” and described the situation as being aligned with Atalanta’s long-standing policy of making one major sale per transfer window.

Despite heavy interest from several clubs, Inter Milan are currently leading the race. Percassi confirmed that “until yesterday, nothing had been concrete,” but things changed quickly when the Nerazzurri finally submitted an official offer.

Inter’s opening bid reportedly stands at €42 million plus €3 million in bonuses, still short of Atalanta’s €50 million valuation.

While Inter’s first offer has not yet met expectations, there’s a clear willingness on both sides to maintain a respectful dialogue.

Percassi praised the relationship between the two clubs, saying: “I saw \[Inter CEO] Marotta yesterday at the Lega offices. We have a great relationship, both personally and professionally.”

Still, the Atalanta chief stressed that any decision regarding Lookman’s future will come on the club’s terms. “The timing and value of Atalanta players leaving are decisions made solely by the club,” he noted, referencing the surprise sale of Mateo Retegui to Saudi Arabia for €65 million.

With that windfall already banked, Atalanta feel no urgency to lower their price tag for one of Africa’s most valuable attackers.