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Ademola Lookman has taken a decisive step towards ending his time at Atalanta by formally submitting a transfer request amid growing interest from Serie A rivals Inter Milan, Footynaija.com reports.
The Nigeria international, who was instrumental in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph last year, has grown increasingly disillusioned with the club’s handling of transfer negotiations.
After weeks of speculation, failed bids, and behind-the-scenes tension, Lookman issued a heartfelt statement via Instagram confirming his desire to leave the Bergamo-based club.
“Over the past three years at Atalanta, I’ve given absolutely everything. Not just as a footballer, but as a person,” Lookman wrote. “This place has felt like home from the moment I arrived… But I feel that now, after three wonderful years in Bergamo, it is the right time to move on and experience a new adventure.”
The winger, who has contributed 52 goals and 25 assists in 118 appearances since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2022, is keen to join Cristian Chivu’s Inter Milan. Reports indicate that Lookman has already agreed personal terms with the Nerazzurri.
However, Inter’s attempts to secure the 27-year-old have been met with resistance.
Two bids, the latest reportedly worth €42m plus €3m in add-ons, have been rejected by Atalanta, who are believed to be holding firm on a €50m valuation.
“Despite now receiving an offer in alignment to what I believe had been discussed, sadly the club are blocking the opportunity for reasons I do not understand,” Lookman stated. “As a result… I feel I have no choice but to speak out for what I believe is right. I can confirm I have now handed in a formal transfer request.”
The player also addressed the Atalanta faithful in an emotional apology.
“To the fans – the heartbeat of this club – I want to say this: I’m truly sorry it’s come to this,” he wrote. “The support you have always given me has been incredible and the bond we have created together is special.”
Lookman’s growing frustration was first evident when he wiped all Atalanta-related content from his social media accounts earlier this week. Sunday’s public statement confirms weeks of reported unrest.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported on Sunday that Inter’s latest bid has again been turned down. The reigning African Player of the Year remains a top target for the Nerazzurri, but time is running out for a deal to be completed, with just under a month left in the summer window.
Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi confirmed the club has been aware of Lookman’s intentions.
“Lookman has been expressing his desire to leave for some time. It’s no secret,” Percassi told reporters. “He was a player who should have left this summer, following our philosophy of one sale per year. But the market always brings surprises.”
With a contract running until 2027, Atalanta are under no immediate pressure to sell, but Lookman’s transfer request and public stance may shift the dynamics before the window closes.
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