Nigeria Players Abroad
Ademola Lookman deletes Atalanta from social media after Inter Milan bid rejected
By Dayo Awoniyi
Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman has removed all references to Atalanta from his social media accounts following the club’s rejection of a €45 million transfer offer from Inter Milan, escalating speculation over his potential departure.
The reigning African Player of the Year is reported to have already agreed personal terms with Inter, who are managed by former Romanian international Christian Chivu. However, Atalanta remain firm in their valuation, demanding at least €50 million for the 26-year-old.
Inter’s latest bid, consisting of €42 million plus €3 million in performance-related bonuses, was officially rejected on Friday, with Atalanta insisting the offer did not meet their expectations.
In apparent reaction to the stalled negotiations, Lookman has made a dramatic statement online. His Instagram bio now reads only “Football player for Nigeria,” and all Atalanta-related content — including photos and profile images — has been deleted.
The move has intensified speculation that the Super Eagles forward is frustrated by the club’s stance, though no official comments have been made by either Lookman or Atalanta.
Lookman was instrumental in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph last season, scoring a historic hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen and finishing the campaign as one of the club’s standout performers.
Inter Milan are now considering whether to return with an improved offer as they seek to land the prolific attacker before the Serie A season begins.
