Atalanta are reportedly waiting for a revised proposal from Inter Milan for Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman after rejecting the club’s initial approach, www.isagoal.com reports.
According to Calciomercato.com, Inter’s first offer—structured as a loan with a purchase option—was dismissed by Atalanta, who prefer a straight cash deal. The Serie A side sees Lookman as a priority target this window, following signings like Petar Sucic, Luis Henrique, and Ange-Yoan Bonny.
Inter is reportedly ready to offer the Nigerian forward a €4 million yearly salary. However, their initial €40 million transfer bid failed to match Atalanta’s asking price, which stands closer to €50 million.
The Bergamo-based club, having already sold Mateo Retegui to Al-Qadsiah for €65 million, is in no rush and intends to hold firm in negotiations over Lookman.
The rejected proposal hasn’t deterred Inter, who are expected to return with an improved offer, potentially increasing the bid by €2 million to €3 million.
Atalanta view Lookman as a vital asset and are leveraging their strong financial position this summer.
“Inter see Lookman as the final piece in their attack,” a source familiar with the deal stated.
Lookman, the 2023 African Player of the Year, continues to draw high-level attention across Europe.