Super Eagles News: The power players behind Atalanta and Ademola Lookman's transfer standoff

The saga surrounding Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman’s much-anticipated transfer from Atalanta has taken a dramatic turn.

Behind the scenes, it has been revealed that Atalanta’s owners and shareholders, led by American businessman Stephen Pagliuca, who are decisively blocking the Nigerian forward’s exit from the Serie A club.

Lookman, 27, publicly submitted a formal transfer request over the weekend, accusing the club of “poor treatment” and “breaking promises” regarding his expected move to Inter Milan.

The Nigerian winger, who has scored 52 goals in 118 appearances for Atalanta and played a vital role in their 2024 Europa League win, called out the club’s management on social media, expressing frustration after “many months of broken promises.”

In his statement, Lookman revealed that he and the club ownership had mutually agreed that this summer was the right time for him to seek a new challenge.

However, despite receiving what he considered a fair offer, Atalanta rejected bids, including a €45 million proposal from Inter Milan.

Disappointed, Lookman described the club’s refusal to sanction the move as “blocking the opportunity for reasons I do not understand.”

Corriere dello Sport editor Ivan Zazzaroni, who broke news of Inter’s interest, as reported by Sempreinter, identified Stephen Pagliuca, owner of 55% of Atalanta through a shareholders’ consortium, as the main figure opposing the sale.

According to Zazzaroni, the club views Lookman as "unsellable" following the departure of another key forward, Retegui, last season.

Inter Milan, reportedly in agreement with Lookman on personal terms, remain undeterred but are in no rush to finalize the deal as Atalanta remain firm in their stance.

Lookman’s public plea to force a transfer could, however, embolden Inter to intensify their efforts.

Despite the impasse, Lookman expressed his gratitude towards Atalanta’s fans, lamenting the difficult position he finds himself in after dedicating years of loyalty and outstanding performances.

The talented winger now hopes to find an amicable resolution that will allow him to continue his career elsewhere.

As the boardroom politics at Atalanta play out, the football world watches closely, aware that the decisions of a few powerful shareholders are currently keeping one of Africa’s finest talent grounded in Bergamo against his will.