Promises Broken: Lookman forces Atalanta exit with transfer request

Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has officially submitted a formal transfer request to leave Atalanta, citing broken promises and poor treatment from the Italian club’s management as the main reasons behind his decision.

In a heartfelt statement on Instagram, Lookman expressed the deep emotional connection he has with Atalanta and the city of Bergamo, highlighting memorable moments such as winning the Europa League as some of the proudest achievements of his career.

“Atalanta, and especially its supporters, have become a part of me. This place has felt like home from the moment I arrived, and I've always tried to repay that love – even in moments where things haven’t been easy behind the scenes,” he said.

“Atalanta, and especially its supporters, have become a part of me. This place has felt like home from the moment I arrived, and I've always tried to repay that love – even in moments where things haven’t been easy behind the scenes,” he said.

However, the Nigerian star revealed that despite prior assurances from the club’s ownership that he would be allowed to move should a fair offer arrive, the club has since blocked opportunities for his transfer. 

“Despite now receiving an offer in alignment to what I believe had been discussed, sadly, the club are blocking the opportunity for reasons I do not understand,” Lookman, who deleted Atalanta from his social accounts, said.

This news comes amid a prolonged transfer saga, with Italian giants Inter Milan reportedly submitting offers in the region of €42 million plus €3 million in add-ons, offers which Atalanta have rejected, demanding up to €50 million for the African Footballer of the Year.

Lookman, 27, has been noticeably absent from recent team activities, fueling speculation about his imminent departure.

The player’s decision to publicly declare his transfer request underscores escalating tensions between him and Atalanta’s management and may increase pressure on the club to reach an agreement soon.