Lookman skips training to force Atalanta exit

Reigning African Player of The Year, Ademola Lookman, skipped Atalanta’s training on Monday, signalling his intention to force his way out of the club

The Nigerian has been the subject of transfer interest from 2025 Champions League finalists Inter Milan, who have recently seen a bid of €45m including bonuses turned down by Atalanta.

Atalanta seem unwilling to bend their stance and sell Lookman to their league rivals, Inter Milan, due to an initial agreement with the player.

In reaction, the player skipped training on Monday after lashing out at the club’s hierarchy on Sunday.

“Ademola Lookman didn’t show up for training today as he keeps insisting on his plan to leave Atalanta. Atalanta maintains their position. No way to let him go for €42m plus €3m proposal rejected last week. No fresh bid from Inter so far,” transfer expert Fabrizio Romano posted.

Lookman announced that he had submitted an official transfer request on Sunday, as the relationship between him and the club had degenerated over the lingering transfer.

Atalanta, meanwhile, have stood firm with their valuation of €50m, and after seeing Inter’s most recent bid turned down, Lookman took to Instagram to release a statement sharing his version of events and explaining why he has decided to submit a formal transfer request.