Ademola Lookman’s summer transfer saga is reaching a boiling point as he has gone missing from Atalanta’s training sessions and reportedly exited Italy in protest over a blocked move to Inter Milan—www.isagoal.com reports.
Sources reveal Lookman’s frustration grew after Atalanta declined Inter’s offer last week. The winger deleted all Atalanta-related posts on social media and announced his transfer request, citing a broken verbal promise.
Atalanta, unwilling to let their key attacker leave for a direct rival, plan to hit Lookman with a hefty fine for going AWOL and possibly pursue legal action, according to Football Italia. Clubs often dock players’ wages for unauthorized absences, and Lookman faces this consequence.
The 27-year-old Nigerian still has two years remaining on his contract, which gives Atalanta the leverage to hold firm unless a better offer arrives. Inter’s initial €42 million bid fell short of Atalanta’s €50 million valuation, prompting the club to stall.
With no other suitors making concrete moves, Atalanta appear set to keep Lookman unless the summer transfer window brings fresh interest. Meanwhile, the club hopes this dispute ends quickly as Serie A’s new season looms just weeks away.
This article was updated 50 minutes ago