Former Watford coach Giuseppe Sannino has called on Atalanta to bring Ademola Lookman back into the squad, insisting the forward remains too valuable to leave out — www.isagoal.com reports.
According to Soccernet.ng, the Nigerian international pushed for a move earlier in the summer after Inter Milan submitted multiple bids, but Atalanta rejected every offer.
The Africa Footballer of the Year reacted by handing in a transfer request and briefly refusing to train, which left his relationship with the club strained.
Although Lookman has since resumed training, he continues to work away from the main group, and new manager Ivan Juric left him out of their Serie A opener against Pisa.
Sannino defended the 26-year-old, saying, “I would always want Lookman. He’s been a pillar of this team. As a club, you must try to convince him because he’s a great player.”
Lookman became an icon in Bergamo last season after scoring a hat-trick in the Europa League final, delivering Atalanta their first-ever European trophy.
He also recorded 20 goals across Serie A and the Champions League, underlining his impact as one of the most decisive attackers in Italy.
Reports suggest Premier League sides Arsenal, Tottenham, and Newcastle are monitoring his situation, but Atalanta have made it clear they will only sell at the right price.
This article was updated 3 days ago