ABUJA – Inter Milan’s pursuit of Nigerian international Ademola Lookman is close to falling apart, with reports suggesting the Serie A giants are ready to abandon their deal with Atalanta.
According to reports from sport media outlets in Italy, the Nerazzurri no longer see the attacker as a priority and will instead shift focus to strengthening their midfield.
Atalanta nearly five weeks ago rejected two bids: an initial €40 million bid and then €45 million, including add-ons, from Inter Milan for the player, despite earlier discussions that he would be allowed to leave if a fair offer was submitted.
The club is also said to be considering a sell-on clause owed to RB Leipzig, his former club, which complicates transfer negotiations.
The 27-year-old winger has openly pushed for a move, sending a clear message of ‘Enough is Enough’ to Atalanta as talks dragged on.
He further expressed his frustration by skipping training sessions and pre-season games amid uncertainty over his future.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano confirmed reports on Monday that Inter will officially inform both Lookman and Atalanta that the deal is off. Talks collapsed weeks ago after the €45m bid was turned down, and Inter are now exploring other options.
Direct discussions with Lookman’s camp are expected within 24 hours, while a move to the Premier League could also emerge as a possibility.
Despite speculation, Romano also confirmed the Lookman saga was never tied to Nicola Zalewski’s potential switch to Atalanta.
Despite his exploits for Atalanta, Lookman’s potential departure has been blocked after playing a key role in ending the club’s 61-year trophy drought.
The Nigerian forward delivered a historic hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final, earning the Man of the Match award. Since joining the Italian side in 2022, he has registered 32 goals and 16 assists.