Raffaele Palladino values Ademola Lookman as key for Atalanta

Newly appointed coach of Italian Serie A side Atalanta Raffaele Palladino has called Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman a crucial figure at the club.

Lookman’s future with La Dea had remained uncertain after he pushed to leave the club for Inter Milan during the summer transfer window.

The winger was involved in a touchline row with former head coach Ivan Juric earlier this month.

Palladino on Wednesday during his unveiling however stated that the 28-year-old remain part of his plans.

“Lookman is crucial. I called him, as well as all the others who were on national team duty. He presented himself very well. I’ll evaluate his role based on how he performs in training.”

The Nigeria international has been linked with a January exit from the club, as reports of interest form Turkish Super Lig giants Galatasaray. In the Serie A, Atalanta will be away to champions Napoli on Saturday.

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