Ademola Lookman has failed to report for Atalanta training for the second day in a row, as the fallout from his failed move to Inter Milan deepens.
The Nigerian forward is pushing to leave Bergamo this summer and has taken a firm stand following Atalanta’s decision to reject Inter’s €45m bid last week – made up of €42m upfront and €3m in bonuses.
The breakdown in relations between Lookman and Atalanta became public when the Super Eagles star released a strong statement on Instagram, accusing the club of “broken promises” and poor treatment. He also confirmed that he has submitted a formal transfer request.
“I’ve been treated badly as a human being and as a professional footballer,” Lookman wrote, adding that he was assured he would be allowed to leave if a suitable offer came in this summer.
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Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi later admitted there was a gentleman’s agreement in place, but insisted it included a clause that Lookman would not join another Serie A club — effectively ruling out Inter Milan.
Lookman’s absence from the club’s training ground in Zingonia on both Monday and Tuesday is being seen as a protest, aimed at forcing Atalanta’s hand. The 27-year-old was expected to undergo individual sessions as he recovers from injury, but chose not to show up.
With tensions running high, Atalanta are unlikely to be pleased by the player’s actions. However, Lookman and his camp are hoping that the pressure will lead to a breakthrough in talks between the two clubs.
The former Everton and RB Leipzig winger was one of Atalanta’s standout players last season, scoring crucial goals in their UEFA Europa League-winning campaign. But with the current standoff showing no signs of ending soon, his future at the club is in serious doubt.
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