Credit: Susana Vera-Reuters via Imagn Images

Inter Milan End Pursuit of Ademola Lookman After Atalanta Talks Collapse

Credit: Susana Vera-Reuters via Imagn Images

Inter Milan have officially decided to step away from the pursuit of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman after prolonged negotiations with Atalanta collapsed. According to the journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Nerazzurri will meet with the player’s representatives within the next 24 hours.

In that meeting, they will communicate their decision and provide closure on the failed move. The Serie A champions had been chasing Lookman for almost five weeks. They saw him as a versatile option to bolster their attacking line.

Despite multiple bids, including an improved €45 million offer with add-ons, Atalanta refused to lower their valuation. Talks between the two clubs had been stalled for more than two weeks. This led the Nerazzurri to conclude that progress was unlikely.

🚨🇳🇬 Inter will talk to Ademola Lookman agent in next 24h, expected to inform the Nigerian forward about deal OFF.

Negotiations with Atalanta are completely frozen since two weeks ago.

Lookman deal was never linked to Nicola Zalewski’s move to Atalanta, as always reported. pic.twitter.com/3D8mRrWp2b
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 18, 2025

Ademola Lookman Frustration Grows

The 27-year-old forward had publicly expressed his desire to leave Bergamo. He had even submitted a transfer request to force Atalanta’s hand. Reports in Italy also claim that he has skipped training sessions since the beginning of August as his future remains unresolved.

Lookman’s standout performances last season earned him Africa’s Best Player of the Year award. One of his most memorable performances included a hat-trick in Atalanta’s Europa League win. It drew interest across Europe, but Inter’s withdrawal leaves his situation uncertain.

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For now, Lookman continues to train separately in Portugal while awaiting further clarity. With the transfer window deadline of August 31 fast approaching, his options appear increasingly limited unless a new suitor emerges willing to meet Atalanta’s demands.

Inter Mian Shift Focus Elsewhere

Sky Sport Italia reports that Inter no longer view signing a forward as their top priority. Reportedly, they will now turn their attention to reinforcing midfield options instead. Despite early optimism, the Nerazzurri believe their squad balance would be better served with central reinforcements rather than another attacking signing.

Also Read: Inter Milan Reject Chelsea’s €50M Bid for Alessandro Bastoni

Club insiders have also dismissed speculation that the collapse of Lookman’s move was linked to Nicola Zalewski’s potential switch from Roma to Atalanta. They clarified that the two negotiations were entirely separate. Lookman has been a key figure for Atalanta since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2022.

He contributed decisively in Serie A and on the European stage. He also impressed on the international scene. He scored three goals to help Nigeria reach the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final. While Atalanta remain firm on their valuation, Lookman’s future seems to be hanging in the balance.

Ademola Lookman

Atalanta

Inter Milan

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.