Atalanta CEO: Lookman once vowed not to play for another Italian club

Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi has clarified the situation surrounding Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman, who is currently at the center of transfer speculation during the ongoing summer window.

Speaking during the presentation of goalkeeper Marco Sportiello, Percassi addressed the Lookman issue directly, stating:

“This is a good opportunity to clarify what actually happened. Last year, following a €20 million offer from Paris Saint-Germain, the player asked to leave. As a credible and respectful club, Atalanta agreed in principle to consider a transfer in this summer window — but based on two conditions the player himself had requested.”

Percassi explained that Lookman’s conditions were clear:

“First, that any potential move would be to a top-level European club. And second, that he would never consider playing for another Italian team besides Atalanta, out of respect for what he had accomplished here and what the club had given him.”

However, the current situation appears to be shifting.

“Today, the scenario is quite different,” Percassi added. “Nonetheless, the club is always careful in evaluating timing and the market value of its players. But as always, Atalanta makes the final decision.”

Lookman has requested to leave Atalanta after the club received an offer from Inter Milan earlier in the transfer window, but it was turned down. The Nigerian international is believed to have reiterated his desire to leave during the current summer market, but no agreement has been announced so far.