Ademola Lookman, the dynamic Nigerian forward who played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s European success last season, has reportedly picked up a calf injury that could keep him out of action for several weeks. The news comes at a sensitive time as Inter Milan continue their aggressive pursuit of the winger during the summer transfer window.
Injury Emerges Following Training Discomfort
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Lookman began experiencing discomfort in his calf shortly after a training session on Wednesday. He reportedly felt increased pain while striking the ball, prompting immediate concern from Atalanta’s medical staff. While the full extent of the injury remains uncertain, the club has temporarily pulled him out of full team training until a complete medical assessment can determine the severity of the problem.
Sources close to the situation, including SOSFanta, confirm that the 27-year-old will undergo further examinations to rule out any major damage. For now, the injury appears to be minor, but it comes at a critical moment with transfer negotiations reaching a decisive phase.
Inter Milan Intensify Pursuit Amid Injury Concerns
Despite the injury scare, Inter Milan remain highly interested in acquiring Lookman. The Serie A champions have reportedly reached a personal agreement with the Super Eagles winger and are now working to finalize a deal with Atalanta. Their opening offer of €40 million, however, still falls short of Atalanta’s firm €50–60 million valuation for clubs within Italy.
In a bid to bridge the gap, Calciomercato reports that Inter are considering sweetening the deal by including Albanian midfielder Kristjan Asllani in a player-plus-cash package. The strategy aims to entice Atalanta into negotiations while reducing the overall cash requirement. Inter’s new manager, Christian Chivu, has already identified Lookman as a crucial part of his attacking overhaul at the San Siro.
Lookman’s Stellar Form Drives Interest
Lookman’s outstanding form over the past two seasons has naturally attracted interest from several European giants. He scored 17 goals during the 2023/24 season and was instrumental in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph, most notably netting a sensational hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen in the final.
The Nigerian international carried that momentum into the 2024/25 campaign, adding another 20 goals to his tally, solidifying his reputation as one of the most clinical and versatile attackers in European football. His stellar performances have not gone unnoticed, with clubs such as Atletico Madrid and Arsenal also reportedly monitoring his availability.
Player Keen on San Siro Switch
While multiple top-tier clubs have expressed interest, reports suggest Lookman himself is keen on a move to Inter. Sources say he has already given his approval to join the Nerazzurri, believing the club offers the right environment to continue his development and compete for major trophies.
Christian Chivu’s plans for a revamped attacking line heavily feature Lookman, and Inter’s management remains confident that they can persuade Atalanta to part ways with their prized asset. Notably, there are claims that Atalanta had previously promised to allow Lookman a transfer this summer under the right conditions.
Contract Status and Transfer Outlook
Lookman is currently tied to Atalanta until 2027, giving the club significant leverage in negotiations. However, ongoing talks between the two Italian sides suggest a deal remains possible, especially if Inter can present a package that satisfies Atalanta’s demands both financially and strategically.
Still, the calf injury adds an extra layer of complexity. Inter will likely monitor Lookman’s recovery closely before finalizing any agreement, while Atalanta may prefer to wait for a clean bill of health before approving a transfer.
What’s Next?
As Lookman awaits further medical evaluation, both clubs face crucial decisions in the coming days. If the injury proves to be minor, negotiations may quickly resume at full pace. However, any prolonged absence could delay or potentially derail the transfer, depending on Inter’s risk appetite and Atalanta’s long-term plans.
For now, Lookman’s immediate focus will be on his recovery, while his representatives and both clubs continue shaping what could become one of Serie A’s most significant transfers of the summer.
