Ademola Lookman, Super Eagles forward and 2023/24 UEFA Europa League final hero, has ramped up pressure on Atalanta by skipping training on Monday, intensifying speculation over his possible summer transfer to Inter Milan.
Sources close to the club confirmed that Lookman was absent without official leave, days after formally submitting a transfer request in a bid to force a move away from the Bergamo-based outfit.
His decision marks a sharp escalation in an increasingly tense standoff between the player and club management.
Lookman’s desired move to Serie A rivals Inter Milan has stalled, despite a reported €42 million bid plus €3 million in performance-related bonuses from the Nerazzurri. Atalanta rejected the offer, insisting on a minimum valuation of €50 million for the Nigerian international.
The 26-year-old winger, who scored a memorable hat-trick in the Europa League final to secure Atalanta’s first-ever European title, is reportedly frustrated with the club’s refusal to allow his transfer to go through.
Speaking on the situation, renowned transfer insider Fabrizio Romano tweeted: “Ademola Lookman didn’t show up for training today as he keeps insisting on his plan to leave Atalanta. Atalanta maintains their position. No way to let him go for €42m plus €3m proposal rejected last week. No fresh bid from Inter so far.”
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Sources within the club suggest Lookman believes joining Inter Milan—under the guidance of Cristian Chivu—would be a significant step forward in his career. However, Atalanta’s rigid stance has reportedly left the player disillusioned and seeking more aggressive measures.
Atalanta, who view Lookman as a key asset ahead of their upcoming Champions League campaign, remain unwilling to sanction his departure for anything below their asking price. The club is under no financial pressure to sell, and insiders say they are determined to stick to their valuation.
An Atalanta source who spoke anonymously said: “We understand the player’s ambitions, but the club has a responsibility to protect its interests. €50 million is our threshold, and that hasn’t changed.”
While Inter Milan remains keen on acquiring Lookman, they are yet to return with an improved offer.
Reports indicate that Inter is weighing its options, with the club reluctant to meet Atalanta’s €50 million demand without negotiating structured payments or including a player in the deal.
Sports journalist Luca Marchetti, speaking on Sky Sport Italia, noted: “Inter believes Lookman is the right fit for their project, but they are also playing the long game. With Lookman applying pressure, they may wait until the final weeks of the window to force Atalanta’s hand.”
Lookman’s absence from training could attract disciplinary measures from Atalanta, potentially deepening the rift. However, with the player under contract until 2026, the club holds the stronger bargaining position unless a fresh and improved offer emerges.