'Wants to leave' – Atalanta chief confirms Lookman is angling for a move amid Inter Milan interest

Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi has confirmed that star forward Ademola Lookman is eager to depart the club, with Inter Milan actively pursuing the Nigerian international. 

In a statement shared by renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on X, Percassi revealed, "Lookman wants to leave since long time ago. 

"We have a proposal from Inter but it’s us deciding timing and valuation for our own players." 

He emphasized Atalanta’s intent to control the transfer process, adding, "We have good relationship and we will consider the proposal with our timing."

Lookman, 27, has been a standout performer for Atalanta, scoring 20 goals across all competitions in the 2024/25 season, including 15 in Serie A, trailing only Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui in the league’s scoring charts. 

His stellar performances, highlighted by a hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final, earned him the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award and a 14th-place finish in the Ballon d’Or rankings. 

Inter Milan, keen to bolster their attacking options, have identified Lookman as a priority target.

Negotiations between the clubs have intensified, with Inter submitting an improved €45 million offer, including bonuses, after an initial €40 million bid was rejected. 

Atalanta, however, remain firm on their €50 million valuation, leveraging Lookman’s two-year contract and their strong position following recent player sales. 

A key meeting between Inter president Beppe Marotta and Percassi took place on Tuesday, during a Serie A League Council, but no agreement was reached.

Atalanta’s reluctance to rush the deal stems from their history of protracted negotiations, as seen in last summer’s transfer of Teun Koopmeiners to Juventus. 

Inter, wary of delays, included an expiration date in their latest proposal. With Lookman’s heart set on San Siro, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether Atalanta will relent or hold firm.

Wale Adejumo

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