Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has made it clear he is uninterested in a transfer to Premier League side Arsenal, insisting instead on sealing a move to Serie A giants Inter Milan.
The 27-year-old Nigerian international is currently at loggerheads with his club, Atalanta, over their refusal to sanction his departure. Lookman has failed to report for La Dea’s pre-season training camp, missing preparations for the upcoming campaign in protest.
The 2024 UEFA Europa League champions have already rejected two offers from Inter for the winger, holding out for their €50m valuation. The stance has reportedly infuriated Lookman, who remains adamant about joining the Nerazzurri despite Atalanta entertaining potential bids from outside Italy.
According to an Italian source, “Lookman is absolutely set on joining Inter. The Nerazzurri have a full agreement with the Nigerian international. They have done so for some time.” The report adds that Inter are not pursuing any other attacking options, with coach Cristian Chivu making Lookman a priority target and even willing to alter his formation to suit the former Leicester City star.
Tensions have escalated further after Lookman allegedly left Italy without permission, embarking on an unauthorised vacation following Atalanta’s latest rejection of Inter’s bid.
The Bergamo club’s hierarchy views his absence as unacceptable, with Football Italia reporting that the Percassi family — owners of Atalanta — have prepared legal action that could see Lookman heavily fined.
The forward, who played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph last season, has not communicated with the club since his departure, deepening the standoff ahead of the new season.