Rival Atlético Madrid for Atalanta Star
The summer transfer window is heating up with a fierce battle for the signature of Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman. Both Italian giants Inter Milan and Spanish heavyweights Atlético Madrid are actively in the race to sign the Atalanta star, who has reportedly expressed his clear intention to leave his current club. Inter are reportedly preparing an official bid of €40 million, as reported by Corriere dello Sport, while Atlético Madrid’s pursuit is contingent on selling one of their attacking players.
Lookman is said to be keen on a move to Inter, with talks for personal terms already ongoing. However, Atalanta is holding out for more than the €40 million currently on the table, valuing their prized asset higher. While nothing is agreed or close yet, the “deal is on,” setting the stage for a compelling transfer saga.
Ademola Lookman: A Career Defined by Explosive Talent
Ademola Lookman, 27, has enjoyed a remarkable career trajectory, blossoming into one of Europe’s most exciting attackers, particularly during his impactful spell at Atalanta. Born in London, he represented England at various youth levels before committing his international future to Nigeria.
Key Statistics and Contributions with Atalanta (since August 2022):
- Total Appearances: 118 across all competitions.
- Total Goals: 52.
- Total Assists: 21.
- Serie A (2024-25 Season): 31 appearances, 15 goals, 5 assists.
- UEFA Champions League (2024-25 Season): 7 appearances, 5 goals, 1 assist.
- Europa League (2023-24 Season): 18 appearances, 7 goals, 2 assists.
Career Achievements and Highlights:
- UEFA Europa League Winner (2023-24): A standout achievement, where he famously scored a hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen, a performance that etched his name into European football history.
- African Footballer of the Year (2024): This prestigious individual award recognized his phenomenal contributions and consistent form.
- Serie A Team of the Season (2024-25): A testament to his consistent excellence in one of Europe’s top leagues.
- CAF Africa Cup of Nations Runner-up (2024): A key player for the Super Eagles, helping them reach the final.
- FIFA U20 World Cup Winner (2017): Part of the victorious England U20 squad.
- Atalanta Player of the Season (2022-23, 2023-24): Voted the club’s best player for two consecutive seasons.
Lookman’s playing style is characterized by his blistering pace, exceptional dribbling ability, clinical finishing, and versatility across the frontline (winger, second striker, or central forward). He is a constant threat in transition and possesses a powerful shot from distance.
The Inter Milan Push: A Dream Move in the Making?
Inter Milan views Ademola Lookman as a top attacking priority this summer. Sporting director Piero Ausilio has reportedly identified him as a “dream addition” to Simone Inzaghi’s squad, especially with the club looking to bolster their attacking options after a challenging end to the previous season.
Reports indicate that Inter has already accelerated talks with Lookman’s representatives and has secured his “green light” for a move to San Siro. This personal agreement gives Inter a strong advantage in the race. The Nerazzurri are reportedly preparing a non-negotiable €40 million bid, hoping to capitalize on a reported promise Atalanta made to Lookman regarding a potential transfer. Inter believes this figure could be enough to seal the deal without needing to sell other players first.
Atlético Madrid’s Challenge and Atalanta’s Stance
Atlético Madrid, under Diego Simeone, also holds a strong interest in Lookman, with Simeone reportedly a “huge admirer” of his pace and directness. However, their pursuit is complicated by their need to sell an attacking player before making a formal move. This gives Inter a temporary advantage in the negotiations. Atlético has reportedly held fresh talks with Atalanta but is waiting for clarity on the final pricing.
Atalanta, meanwhile, is in no rush to sell their star player and is reportedly demanding more than the €40 million Inter is preparing. They value Lookman closer to €50 million and are reluctant to lose him, especially after the recent departure of long-time manager Gian Piero Gasperini to Roma. Lookman is under contract until 2027, giving Atalanta a strong position to negotiate for their desired fee.
The Road Ahead: Awaiting the Breakthrough
The coming days will be critical as Inter Milan pushes to finalize the Lookman deal before pre-season preparations intensify. While personal terms are reportedly agreed with Inter, the crucial hurdle remains the transfer fee with Atalanta. If Inter cannot meet Atalanta’s valuation, or if Atlético Madrid manages to offload an attacker and submit a compelling bid, the saga could take further twists.
Ademola Lookman’s next destination will be one of the most keenly watched transfers of the summer, as one of Africa’s most exciting talents seeks a new challenge at a top European club.
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