The football world is abuzz with speculation surrounding Ademola Lookman’s future at Atalanta, as the Nigerian forward was notably absent from the squad for their upcoming friendly against RB Leipzig, a move widely interpreted as a clear signal amidst intensified transfer negotiations with Inter Milan.

This decision by Atalanta to bench Lookman, despite his reported recovery from a minor injury, fuels persistent rumors that his exclusion is directly linked to the ongoing high-stakes discussions with the Serie A giants. The club’s stance appears firm, valuing their prolific striker at a substantial €50 million, a price point they seem unwilling to budge from.

Sources close to the negotiations reveal that Inter Milan has already tabled an initial offer in the region of €45 million, inclusive of various add-ons. However, La Dea, keen to maximize their return on a key asset, has unequivocally rejected this proposal, indicating a significant valuation gap between the two clubs.

Further complicating the intricate dance of these player negotiations, reports suggest that Ademola Lookman himself is eager for a move to Inter Milan, making the current stalemate even more challenging for Atalanta. His personal ambition to join the Nerazzurri adds considerable weight to Inter’s pursuit, creating a compelling narrative in the summer football transfers window.

Despite Lookman’s apparent desire, multiple reliable outlets indicate that Inter Milan is unlikely to present an improved offer beyond their initial €45 million bid. This firm position from the Milanese club sets the stage for a tense standoff, with both sides holding strong in their respective valuations and demands for this significant Atalanta transfer.

Lookman initially joined Atalanta in 2022 from RB Leipzig for a comparatively modest fee of €10.8 million. Since then, his impressive performances have seen his market value skyrocket, underscoring the shrewd business conducted by the Bergamo-based club in securing his services and developing his talent into a formidable asset in Serie A news.

During his tenure with La Dea, the Nigerian international has been a vital offensive force, netting an impressive 52 goals across 118 appearances. This consistent goal-scoring record and impactful presence on the pitch are precisely why Atalanta views his valuation at €50 million as entirely justified, particularly given the intense interest from a rival club in a pivotal Ademola Lookman.