In a development that has sent ripples through the Italian football transfer market, Atalanta BC has officially rejected Inter Milan`s substantial €45 million bid for their prolific forward, Ademola Lookman. This decision arrives despite reports that Lookman himself had already reached a comprehensive agreement on personal terms with the Nerazzurri, a fact subtly underscored by his subsequent, rather telling, social media activity.
The Negotiation Standoff
The €45 million proposal, inclusive of performance-based bonuses, was deemed insufficient by the Bergamo club. Inter`s CEO, Beppe Marotta, had previously articulated the club`s position, stating that while Lookman was a “suitable profile,” he was not the sole target. Marotta hinted at a swift resolution, indicating that if conditions were not met within a few days, Inter would explore alternative options. A formal email, you see, leaves little room for ambiguity, unlike some other forms of communication in the modern world, making Atalanta`s stance unequivocally clear.
The Player`s Position
For Lookman, the situation is undoubtedly complex. Reports indicate he had already agreed to a lucrative contract with Inter, a five-year deal worth €4.5 million net per season. His eagerness to make the switch became palpable when, shortly after Atalanta`s rejection, he reportedly purged his social media profiles of any direct affiliations with the Bergamo club, even removing the “Atalanta player” tag from his bio. Such a public display of intent is a `strong move` in the contemporary football landscape, signaling a clear desire for a new chapter. Adding another layer to the narrative, Lookman was recently absent from Atalanta`s friendly against Leipzig, ostensibly due to a calf discomfort, a detail that, for now, remains separate from the ongoing transfer saga.
Atalanta`s Unwavering Stance
Atalanta, often dubbed `La Dea` (The Goddess), appears to be living up to its divine moniker, asserting absolute control over its prized assets. The club`s firm refusal underscores their belief in Lookman`s significant market value, likely holding out for a figure closer to €50 million or more. This valuation is hardly arbitrary; Lookman has been a cornerstone of their recent successes, most notably with a hat-trick in the Europa League final and consistent double-digit goal returns in the league. Their strategy suggests a meticulous, business-minded approach, unwilling to compromise on what they deem a fair price, especially for a player of his calibre and impact.
What Comes Next?
The ball is now firmly in Inter Milan`s court. Will they return with an improved offer, perhaps closer to Atalanta`s perceived valuation, or will they pivot to other targets? The transfer window is a game of high stakes and tight deadlines, and the patience of all parties involved will be tested. Should Lookman remain at Atalanta against his expressed wishes, the club might face the challenge of managing a potentially disgruntled star, a scenario rarely conducive to optimal performance. The coming days will reveal whether this negotiation is truly a dead end or merely a temporary impasse in a classic summer transfer drama.
