Atalanta Bergamo has made a definitive decision this summer: despite numerous approaches, Ademola Lookman will not leave the club this season. African football witnessed the Nigerian player, 2024 African Footballer of the Year, decline offers notably from Bayern Munich and Turkish clubs, all rejected by the Bergamo management. President Antonio Percassi had warned that the decision would be made at the end of the transfer window and maintained the club’s firm stance against suitors.
After three successful seasons since his arrival in 2022, including a historic UEFA Europa League title in 2024 where he scored a hat-trick in the final, Lookman hoped to leave for a new challenge. However, despite his expressed desire to depart, the transfer to Inter Milan did not materialize, notably after the refusal of a 45 million euro offer and Atalanta regaining control over the player. The summer tensions led to a temporary sidelining of Lookman, excluded from the Serie A primary squad list, but his name features in the Champions League roster, signaling coach Ivan Juric’s intention to reintegrate him.
Even though Lookman has yet to play a minute in Serie A this season, his inclusion in the Champions League squad confirms Atalanta’s strategy to retain this talent in Bergamo. The technical staff now aims to mend relations and fully integrate Lookman, who could return to competition as early as September 17 against Paris Saint-Germain. This situation underscores Atalanta’s determination to keep its key players despite high offers that do not meet their sporting and financial criteria.
A versatile player and Nigerian international since 2022, Ademola Lookman has established himself as a central figure in the Bergamo project. His journey, starting in England before shining in Italy, is marked by steady progress and high-level performances that bolster the club’s confidence in his potential. While transfer negotiations caused much speculation this summer, his responsibilities and future remain closely tied to Atalanta, which appears resolved to keep its gem for the 2025/26 season.