Nigerian forward who fired Atalanta to Europa League glory last season, Ademola Lookman, has gone from hero to headline controversy after his push for a move to Inter Milan ended in a bitter standoff with the Bergamo club.
The Fallout
In early August, Lookman handed in a formal transfer request, accusing Atalanta of “broken promises” and “poor treatment” after the club blocked what he believed was a green-lit move to Inter.
“I have always worn the jersey with pride, but after many months of broken promises … enough is enough,” Lookman declared in a statement, sparking widespread debate in Italy and beyond.
The Nigerian Football Federation quickly threw its weight behind him, insisting, “We stand with Ademola Lookman.”
Club Hits Back
Atalanta responded with sanctions after Lookman skipped three consecutive training sessions. Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport and The Guardian indicate the club is preparing heavy fines running into thousands of euros and has not ruled out legal action.
Officials insist Lookman will only be allowed to leave if their €50 million valuation is met—well above Inter’s €45 million bid. Sources also suggest Atalanta had privately vowed not to sell the 26-year-old to another Serie A rival.
A Pattern Emerges
This isn’t the first time Lookman’s future has sparked tension. Last year, Paris Saint-Germain made overtures for him, but Atalanta stood firm. Now, critics like ex-Juventus director Luciano Moggi have blasted Lookman’s stance as “a blatant lack of contract respect,” urging Serie A to tighten discipline over such disputes.
Bigger Picture
Lookman’s clash with Atalanta underscores a broader battle in European football: the tension between player power and club control. With Inter likely to return with an improved offer—and other clubs circling—the saga could redefine Lookman’s career and shake up Atalanta’s season before it even begins.
Situation Snapshot
Player: Ademola Lookman
Club: Atalanta
Dispute: Blocked transfer to Inter Milan
Atalanta’s stance: €50M valuation, sanctions, legal threats
Lookman’s stance: Claims of broken promises, demands exit
Support: Backed by NFF
Broader issue: Rising conflict between player autonomy and Serie A contract enforcement
