Inter Milan Grows Impatient, Issues Final Warning to Lookman Amid Transfer Saga With Atalanta
- Inter Milan have set an ultimatum for Ademola Lookman to sort out his saga as Atalanta continues to resist bids
- The Nigerian forward has refused to train with the Bergamo club, pushing for a move before the transfer deadline
- Inter Milan are already exploring alternatives, with Manu Kone from AS Roma now on their radar
Inter Milan’s ambition to secure Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has entered a crucial stage, with the club running out of patience in negotiations with Atalanta.
The dethroned Serie A champions have already seen three bids rejected by their league rivals, who are holding out for €50 million for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year.
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Lookman has made his intentions clear by submitting a transfer request and refusing to return to training, signalling his strong desire to complete a move to San Siro this summer.
Despite this, Atalanta’s firm stance and refusal to lower their valuation have stalled progress, leaving the Nigerian forward caught in a tense standoff between both clubs, Football London reports.
With less than two weeks remaining in the transfer window, Inter fears losing out entirely, not only on Lookman but also on other attacking options they could pursue if they wait too long.
Lookman under pressure amid Inter’s ultimatum
The situation has been further complicated by Lookman’s decision to force Atalanta’s hand.
The 27-year-old forward has gone on strike, refusing to join pre-season training sessions, a move that has sparked frustration within the Bergamo club.
In response, Inter Milan president Beppe Marotta has publicly acknowledged the club’s long-standing admiration for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year winner, admitting there is a limit to their patience, per Transfer News.
Marotta stressed the importance of respecting Atalanta’s position but made it clear that Inter will not chase Lookman indefinitely.
This declaration effectively serves as a final warning to both Atalanta and Lookman to resolve the saga within the coming days or risk the deal collapsing altogether.
Kone emerges as alternative target
With time running out, Inter have already started accelerating talks for a potential Plan B.
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Reports in Italy suggest that the Nerazzurri are preparing an initial €40 million bid for AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone, who has emerged as a strong alternative should Lookman’s move fall through.
While Kone is not a direct replacement positionally, his versatility and attacking contribution make him an attractive option for Inter, who are eager to reinforce their squad ahead of a demanding season.
For Lookman, however, the clock is ticking. If the Nigerian forward’s standoff with Atalanta continues unresolved, he risks missing out on what could be a career-defining move to a Serie A powerhouse.
Inter’s deadline means his future must be sorted swiftly, or the Nerazzurri will officially walk away and close the chapter on his potential transfer.
Lookman rejects Premier League return
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Lookman is unwilling to yield to Atalanta’s demands and has rejected moves proposed by the club after he submitted a transfer request.
Arsenal are one of the English clubs Atalanta contacted over a potential deal. The Gunners have previously expressed interest but did not make a move.
Source: Legit.ng
