Inter Milan weighing next move as Lookman returns to Atalanta training

Inter Milan’s pursuit of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has hit a critical impasse, casting uncertainty over one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer sagas. The Nerazzurri, who had already seen a €40 million bid rejected, returned with a second offer of €42 million plus €3 million in add-ons.

Yet, Atalanta remained unmoved, turning down the improved proposal and leaving Inter to reconsider their next move.

The Bergamo club’s firm stance has left Inter Milan weighing their options. While Lookman remains their top target, the club is now actively considering Chelsea’s out-of-favour forward Christopher Nkunku as a potential alternative.

The decision to pivot could hinge on whether Atalanta would entertain a marginally higher bid or continue to hold out for their full valuation.

Meanwhile, the tension surrounding the transfer has spilled into the public sphere. Ademola Lookman, visibly frustrated by the stalled negotiations, took a bold step by scrubbing all references to Atalanta from his social media accounts—including profile photos and images in club colours. The gesture, though silent, was unmistakably defiant.

Despite the digital protest, Lookman reported back to Atalanta’s training ground, where he is currently recovering from a calf injury.

He was not part of the squad that faced RB Leipzig in a recent friendly, but his presence at training signals a professional commitment—even as his future hangs in the balance.

With Lookman having already agreed personal terms with Inter, the ball is firmly in the Nerazzurri’s court. Whether they will escalate their bid or shift focus to Nkunku remains to be seen.

For now, the Nigerian international continues to train in Bergamo, caught between loyalty and ambition, as the transfer window drama intensifies.