Stop punishing the fans — Atalanta boss opens up on Ademola Lookman situation

Ademola Lookman’s desperation to leave Atalanta has rumbled on since last season, yet with only seven days left in the transfer window, the Nigerian remains at the club against his wishes.

Early in the summer, clubs like Atlético Madrid, Arsenal, and Barcelona were linked, but no bids materialized.

A few weeks ago, Inter Milan emerged as a potential destination, agreeing personal terms with Lookman and submitting a €45m offer. However, Atalanta rejected it, holding firm on their €55m valuation of the Super Eagles star.

Atalanta begin their 2025-26 campaign against newly promoted Pisa on Sunday, and head coach Ivan Juric addressed the ongoing saga:

“The Lookman situation is typical of the transfer market in recent years. These situations punish the fans, while the player and the club look after their own interest.

"The fans put their heart and soul into it, and so they feel bad. The battle is between emotions and cool heads.”

Lookman scored 20 goals in 41 appearances for the Bergamo based club last season, and accused the heirarchy of 'broken promises' suggesting he was told he could leave the club this summer.

However, with Inter Milan no longer in the race, the 27-year-old may be forced to stay at Atalanta for the season, aiming to perform at his peak in hopes of securing a move in January or next summer.