Nigerian U-17 World Cup winner explains why Lookman must leave Atalanta amid Inter interest

Nigerian youth football icon Sambo Choji recently weighed in on Ademola Lookman's rumoured transfer to Inter Milan. The 1993 U-17 World Cup champion said that it was the ideal time for the 27-year-old to leave La Dea and believes Inter are an ideal destination. 

As Pulse Sports reported, Inter are pushing forward with their pursuit of Ademola Lookman, with the aim of completing the deal before the end of July.

Inter and Atalanta are set to enter advanced discussions over Lookman’s transfer in the coming weeks, with Inter working to lower Atalanta’s €50 million asking price.

The Milan-based club is reportedly looking to offer €45 million plus €5 million in bonuses, potentially enough to meet Atalanta’s demands. They are also offering the Nigerian a €4.5 million annual salary. 

In an interview with Africa Foot, Chogi, who had a brief career in Bundesliga 2 as a winger across spells with FC Saarbrucken and Eintracht Braunschweig, said he thinks Lookman has mentally checked out of Atalanta and that the move to Inter could be the right challenge for the Nigerian. 

“Lookman played really well for Atalanta and even helped them win the Europa League title two years ago,” be said. “Since that incident with coach Gasperini after the missed penalty, I personally think his mind was no longer entirely on Atalanta. 

“He remained professional and gave his best, but I believe it's time for a new challenge. Inter are a huge club, and they have the type of players who can get the best out of Lookman. I really hope the move goes through—it would benefit him both financially and in terms of his football career.”

Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid are also interested in the former Fulham forward, as are Napoli. Lookman already rejected the Partenopei, and the LALIGA side will only make a move if one of their forwards leaves this summer.