Ademola Lookman`s future hangs in the balance as Inter Milan pushes for a transfer.
In the high-stakes world of professional football transfers, patience is a virtue, and sometimes, it`s the only card left to play. Inter Milan, it seems, has taken a page straight from Viktor Navorski`s playbook, opting for a strategic “I wait” approach in their determined pursuit of Atalanta`s dynamic forward, Ademola Lookman. The Nerazzurri hierarchy, led by Giuseppe Marotta and Piero Ausilio, has set a clear ten-day deadline, a period during which they hope to break the current stalemate and secure their primary summer target.
The Player`s Unwavering Resolve
Ademola Lookman has made his intentions unequivocally clear. His recent actions speak volumes: the swift deletion of Inter-themed photos from his social media, followed by a public statement on Instagram, and most recently, a noticeable absence from Atalanta`s training session. These are not the typical maneuvers of a player content with his current surroundings. For Lookman, the destination is unambiguous: San Siro, to join Simone Inzaghi`s (or, as the article playfully suggests, Cristian Chivu`s) Inter side, eager to forge a formidable `ThuLaLo` trident alongside Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez.
This resolute stance, however, has not been met with universal approval. Outside Atalanta`s training grounds, banners have appeared, decrying “unworthy agents and ungrateful players,” a pointed message aimed directly at the Nigerian, who has scored 52 goals for the Bergamo club over three seasons. While fans express their disappointment, Lookman`s commitment to Inter remains steadfast, having reportedly agreed to a €4.5 million net per year deal until 2030, a figure made more palatable by Italy`s “Decreto Crescita” tax benefits. He has already reportedly turned down advances from Napoli and Atlético Madrid, solidifying his preference for the black and blue of Milan.
The Bidding Dance and Atalanta`s Gambit
Inter`s initial offer for Lookman, a substantial €40 million, was swiftly rejected by Atalanta on July 17. A subsequent meeting between Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta and Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi saw Inter raise their bid to €45 million, inclusive of bonuses. This, too, was met with a firm “no.” Atalanta`s public stance, articulated by Percassi, suggests that any agreement for Lookman`s departure was predicated on a move to an “international top club,” not a domestic rival. This adds a layer of complexity to the negotiations, as Inter is now prepared to make a third, more significant push.
The situation for Atalanta is, perhaps, more intricate than it appears. The recent, unforeseen sale of Mateo Retegui has left a void in their attacking lineup. Relinquishing another key forward like Lookman without a clear replacement would leave them vulnerable as the new season approaches. Their current reluctance to sell, particularly to a direct Serie A competitor, can be viewed as an attempt to maximize the transfer fee, potentially pushing it closer to the €50 million mark.
Inter`s Deadline and the Alternative Pathway
Inter`s management is ready to exceed the €45 million mark, aiming for a figure around €50 million. However, their patience is not limitless. The ten-day deadline is crucial, especially with pre-season friendlies against Monaco, Monza, and Olympiacos on the horizon, leading up to their Serie A debut against Torino on August 25. The objective is clear: to provide their coach with the desired attacking reinforcement before the league kicks off.
Should the Lookman saga remain unresolved, Inter does have a fallback option in their sights: Christopher Nkunku of Chelsea. While a talent of significant repute, Nkunku`s salary, reportedly €6.5 million net per year until 2029, is not exactly a budget-friendly option for a club known for its meticulous financial management. This alternative highlights Inter`s careful balancing act between sporting ambition and fiscal prudence. For now, however, the primary focus, the strategic waiting, and the ultimate push remain firmly centered on securing the Nigerian sensation.