Ademola Lookman’s transfer to Inter Milan has taken an explosive turn this summer. After Atalanta rejected Inter’s latest €45 million offer, the Nigerian player, furious, decided to break ties with his current club. Now refusing to attend training sessions, Lookman left Italy to settle in the Algarve, Portugal, where he trains alone with a personal coach, applying maximum pressure on Atalanta to resolve the situation.
Under contract with Inter Milan for five seasons at €4 million per year, the player awaits the final agreement between the two clubs. This unprecedented standoff could make this deal one of the hottest in this summer’s transfer window, as Inter prepares a third offer to convince Atalanta to release their offensive key player. Tensions rise while Atalanta holds firm on a price estimated around €50 million despite Inter’s negotiation attempts.
Lookman’s training absence and forced exile illustrate his determination to force a move to San Siro. His impatience is also evident in his public statements against Atalanta’s management on social media, highlighting an open conflict between player and club. Meanwhile, Inter is exploring alternatives, such as Maghnes Akliouche, in case the Lookman deal stalls further.
This transfer is strategic for Inter Milan, hoping that Lookman’s arrival will strengthen the attack and enable coach Cristian Chivu’s team to adopt more offensive tactics like 3-5-2 or 3-4-3, aiming for the Scudetto and a strong Champions League performance. The summer of 2025 thus promises to be crucial, at the crossroads of Inter’s sporting ambitions and internal tensions at Atalanta, with major implications for the African Ballon d’Or winner’s career.
