Tensions Escalate between Atalanta & Lookman

A growing rift is emerging between Italian club Atalanta and their Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, as the player reportedly skipped training sessions and expressed a clear desire to join Inter Milan — a situation that could soon evolve into a legal dispute.

According to Italian media reports, Lookman has recently been absent from team training and was seen removing all his personal belongings from Atalanta’s training base in Zingonia. The move was widely interpreted as a sign of defiance and an indication of his intention to force a transfer.

Lookman remains under contract with Atalanta until June 2027, with an option to extend for an additional year. However, his recent conduct may prompt the club to take disciplinary and legal action, including salary deductions for repeated absences, as allowed under Italian labor law.

Meanwhile, the player’s agent, Andrea D’Amico, hinted at the possibility of seeking a unilateral contract termination through legal channels. He referenced a precedent set by the European Court of Justice in the case of French footballer Lassana Diarra, which upheld equal rights for non-EU players and those from EU countries regarding freedom of movement.

“Following the Diarra ruling, Lookman could demand a unilateral termination of his contract with compensation paid to Atalanta, based on the principle of legal equality in free movement,” said D’Amico.

Atalanta recently rejected a €45 million offer from Inter Milan for Lookman — a move that reportedly frustrated the player and triggered the current standoff.

For now, Lookman’s future hangs in the balance as Atalanta hold firm, demanding either the player’s full commitment or a higher transfer fee. Whether the situation ends in a mutual agreement or a landmark legal battle, the case is poised to leave its mark on the Italian transfer market.