“Ademola Lookman must handle transfer saga with caution” – Ikpeba

Former Nigerian forward, Victor Ikpeba has called for calm over the ongoing transfer saga that involves Ademola Lookman and Atalanta.

Lookman has been embroiled in a challenging transfer drama with the Serie A side regarding his next destination. Lookman, 27, enjoyed a brilliant 2023/24 campaign that saw him lead Atalanta to UEFA Europa League glory, famously scoring a hat-trick in the final against Bundesliga side, Bayer 04 Leverkusen.

There is a seeming tension between the Super Eagle attacker and Atalanta’s hierarchy fueling speculations of his departure.

Despite that, Ikpeba believes Lookman should handle the situation with patience.

“These things happen in football. At the end of the day, the clubs own the players — they call the shots,” Ikpeba told Brila.net. “Lookman and Atalanta had a beautiful relationship. They won a trophy, and he was crowned African Player of the Year. But like in life, some marriages end badly.

“I don’t know the full story, but I believe his representatives and close circle should advise him to stay calm and handle things properly. He should not stop training. It’s always better to part ways on good terms to maintain [their] relationship. He’s already a legend at Atalanta.”

His outstanding season was later rewarded with the CAF African Player of the Year award. Lookman scored 20 goals in all competitions for Atalanta in the 2024/25 season.