Atalanta BC have turned down another bid from Inter Milan for Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, rejecting an offer worth €42 million plus €3 million in add-ons, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on Friday.
This marks the second formal offer from Inter that Atalanta have declined, having previously rebuffed a €40 million proposal. The Bergamo-based club remain firm in their valuation and are insisting on the full €50 million, including performance-related bonuses.
Lookman, who has agreed personal terms with the Nerazzurri, is reportedly eager to complete a move to the San Siro. However, Atalanta are refusing to budge unless Inter meet their financial demands.
Part of the club’s stance is shaped by a sell-on clause in Lookman’s deal with RB Leipzig, which entitles the German side to 10% of any profit up to €20 million, and 15% of any profit above that figure. Atalanta signed Lookman from Leipzig for €10.8 million in 2022, making the financial structure of any deal crucial.
Italian football journalist Alfredo Pedullà reports that Atalanta may reconsider their position if a bid of €45 million plus €5 million in add-ons is tabled. However, there are growing indications that Inter have reached their limit and are unwilling to increase their offer.
With the two clubs still apart on valuation, Inter may now turn their attention to alternative targets, while Premier League clubs are monitoring the situation, aware of the price it would take to lure Lookman away from Serie A.
Meanwhile, Lookman was left out of Atalanta’s squad for their friendly match against RB Leipzig on Saturday, with the club citing a calf injury sustained two weeks ago and the ongoing transfer talks as reasons for his omission.
The 27-year-old forward has become a key figure at Atalanta since his arrival, netting 52 goals in 118 appearances and playing a pivotal role in their 2024 UEFA Europa League triumph, where he scored a memorable hat-trick in the final.
Named the African Footballer of the Year, Lookman now faces an uncertain immediate future as the transfer saga between Atalanta and Inter continues to unfold.