More Trouble: African Best Ademola Lookman banished for the rest of the season

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman faces a significant setback as he is reportedly set to be excluded from Atalanta’s squad for the remainder of the season, further complicating his challenging stint in Italy following a turbulent transfer saga.

According to reports from Italy, the 27-year-old Nigeria international is set to be sidelined due to injury but rather due to the club’s decision to freeze him out in the wake of his summer transfer drama.

Sources from Inter news reveal that Lookman could remain out of action until January or potentially for the entire season as Atalanta takes a firm stance after the controversial events during the transfer window.

The saga began after Atalanta rejected an offer from Inter Milan for Lookman. In response, the forward removed all social media references to Atalanta and issued a blunt public statement asking to be sold, citing "broken promises" by the club regarding a potential summer move.

His agents now have until September 1 to find him a club abroad, with Atalanta reportedly valuing the winger at €55 million.

Last season, Lookman was in impressive form, scoring 20 goals in 41 appearances for the Bergamo-based side.

However, his accusations of broken promises suggest he was told he could leave the club this summer, which makes this situation particularly frustrating for the player.

Meanwhile, Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur has emerged as a potential suitor for Lookman.

Tottenham, keen to strengthen their wing options before the transfer window closes in three days, reportedly see Lookman as an ideal candidate following failed attempts to sign Eberechi Eze from Arsenal and difficulties in securing their top target Savinho from Manchester City.

This unfolding situation adds new uncertainty to Lookman’s career, as the talented winger navigates a complex period marked by transfer tensions and exclusion from playing duties in Italy.