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Lookman Holds Out for Inter Move as Atalanta Stand Firm on €50m Valuation

Ademola Lookman has made it clear he has eyes only for Inter Milan, rebuffing Napoli’s more lucrative approach as negotiations intensify around a potential move from Atalanta. Despite Napoli offering the Nigerian international a net salary of €5 million per year—half a million more than Inter’s €4.5 million package—the 27-year-old remains steadfast in his desire to join the Nerazzurri.

Sources close to the situation reveal Inter have already tabled a €40 million offer plus bonuses and a 10% resale clause. However, Atalanta rejected this bid outright, holding firm on their €50 million asking price. Inter’s financial backers, Oaktree Capital, have reportedly approved a slight increase in the offer—potentially reaching €45 million—to help close the gap and bring the Europa League hero to San Siro.

Lookman’s stance stems not just from sporting ambitions but also a promise allegedly made by Atalanta last year to facilitate his move if a top club came calling. After a stellar 2023-24 campaign, where he scored a hat-trick in the Europa League final and tallied 15 goals across all competitions, the former RB Leipzig and Leicester man believes now is the right time for a step up.

Atalanta, however, are growing increasingly frustrated. Club executives have voiced displeasure over what they see as behind-the-scenes pressure from Lookman’s representatives and Inter management. Additionally, Atalanta are refusing Inter’s proposal of a loan with an obligation to buy, demanding a clean, permanent transfer.

With Napoli turning their attention to more traditional wingers, Inter remain Lookman’s only realistic destination. The player is reportedly prepared to step in personally to push the transfer forward, though he is still under contract in Bergamo until 2027—a deal that gives Atalanta significant leverage.

Whether Inter can reach the magic number or whether Lookman forces the issue, this transfer saga is far from over.

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