BERGAMO, Italy — The CEO of Atalanta Football Club, Antonio Percassi, has confirmed that Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman can leave the Serie A club this summer—but only for what he described as a “super top club” outside of Italy.
Percassi’s comments, shared via Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on social media, come amid escalating tensions over the winger’s future.
“The pact with Lookman was made one year ago when we rejected €20 million from PSG,” Percassi was quoted as saying.
“We told him: we’ll let you leave in 2025 for a super top club and not in Italy. Now, the situation [with Inter] is different… and as always, it’s us deciding.”
Lookman, 27, has officially submitted a transfer request, bringing weeks of speculation to a head.
His request follows what he described in a heartfelt public statement as “broken promises” and “poor treatment” from Atalanta’s management.
“I have given absolutely everything over the past three years at Atalanta,” Lookman said in a post on Sunday.
“Not just as a footballer but as a person. I’ve always worn the shirt with pride and tried to represent this club and the city of Bergamo with heart, passion and dedication.”
The Europa League winner, who has emerged as one of Atalanta’s most consistent performers, said he felt compelled to go public after enduring months of behind-the-scenes frustrations, despite what he claimed was a prior agreement allowing him to depart should a suitable offer arrive.
While Lookman did not name specific clubs, his decision to hand in a formal request has been widely interpreted as a pushback against what he believes to be shifting goalposts.
The club’s stance appears firm: no Serie A rival, not even Inter Milan, will be considered a valid destination.
Atalanta’s refusal to sanction a domestic transfer—despite interest from several Italian top-flight teams—highlights a brewing stand-off between player and club that could shape the final weeks of the transfer window.
Lookman joined Atalanta in 2022 and quickly became a fan favourite, playing a pivotal role in their Europa League triumph and helping elevate the club’s status on the European stage.
Known for his creativity, pace, and finishing ability, the Super Eagles star has attracted interest from clubs in the Premier League and across Europe.
