Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has confirmed he has submitted a formal transfer request to leave Italian side Atalanta, citing what he described as “broken promises” and poor treatment from the club.
In a statement posted on his X account, the 26-year-old said he had given “absolutely everything” during his three years in Bergamo but believed it was now the right time to “move on and experience a new adventure.”
Lookman said he had previously turned down offers from other clubs out of loyalty to Atalanta but claimed he had an understanding with the club’s management that he would be allowed to leave if a fair offer came in.
“Despite now receiving an offer in alignment with what I believe had been discussed, sadly, the club are blocking the opportunity for reasons I do not understand,” he wrote.
The Nigerian international, who helped Atalanta win the Europa League in 2024, said his decision followed “many months of broken promises” and treatment he felt was unfair both “as a human being and as a professional footballer.”
He expressed gratitude to Atalanta supporters, describing them as “the heartbeat of this club” and recalling the “incredible bond” created since his arrival. He also apologised to fans that the situation had reached this stage.
“It’s simply about standing up for what I believe is fair and right. The support you have always given me has been incredible and the bond we have created together is special,” he added.
Lookman emphasised that he hoped to work with the club to reach an amicable resolution “as soon as possible.”
The winger joined Atalanta in 2022 from German side RB Leipzig and has been a key figure in Gian Piero Gasperini’s squad, contributing decisive goals in domestic and European competitions.
It is reported that Lookman wants to join Inter Milan; however, according to sports journalist Fabrizio Romano, Atalanta informed Inter of their decision to reject the latest proposal, which represented an improvement on an initial €40 million bid that was also turned down. La Dea have made it clear they want the full asking price for Lookman, even if that figure includes performance-related bonuses.
The club’s firm stance is partly influenced by their obligation to pay RB Leipzig 10 per cent of the profit up to €20 million and 15 per cent above that figure, as part of Lookman’s original transfer from the German club in 2022.
Meanwhile, Lookman was absent from Atalanta’s squad for their pre-season game against RB Leipzig in Germany on Saturday.
