Serie A club Atalanta are preparing to take legal action against Super Eagles attacker Ademola Lookman after the Nigerian left Italy without permission and refused to attend training sessions in protest over the club’s rejection of Inter Milan’s transfer bid.
The 27-year-old winger has gone on an unauthorised vacation following Atalanta’s decision to turn down Inter’s latest offer, with the club’s hierarchy considering his behaviour completely unacceptable.
According to Football Italia, the Percassi family have prepared legal action that could result in a costly fine for Lookman, who has also refused to communicate with the club since departing Italy.
“After missing a few training sessions with Atalanta, Lookman has decided to leave Italy and go on an extra summer vacation,” a report stated.
“The Percassi family have prepared legal action with a costly fine, as the striker’s attitude is considered completely unacceptable, regardless of the reasoning behind it.”
The situation has reached a complete impasse with both Atalanta and Inter Milan waiting for the other party to make the first move, creating a transfer stalemate just weeks before the new Serie A season begins.
Lookman’s protest stems from what he perceives as a breach of trust, having reportedly agreed on a verbal understanding with Atalanta that he could leave this summer if a suitable offer arrived.
Inter Milan have already agreed personal terms with the Nigeria international on a deal worth €4.5m net per season until 2030, but their latest bid of €42m guaranteed plus €3m in variables falls short of Atalanta’s €50m valuation.
The former Europa League winners are reluctant to sell their star player to a direct Serie A rival and are hoping other interested clubs might table improved offers.
Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as potential competitors for Lookman’s signature, with the north London club identifying him as a viable alternative to Real Madrid’s Rodrygo as they seek to replace departing captain Son Heung-min.
However, Atalanta hold the upper hand in negotiations as Lookman still has two years remaining on his contract, meaning he would be obliged to return if no agreement is reached.
The Nigerian forward enjoyed an outstanding campaign last season, scoring 20 goals across all competitions. Lookman has already submitted a transfer request and unfollowed Atalanta on social media platforms, further indicating his determination to secure a move away from Bergamo this summer.
i05eih
qt6alx