Lookman: ‘I can confirm I have now handed in a formal transfer request’

Ademola Lookman has officially submitted a transfer request to Atalanta, citing broken promises and poor treatment as key reasons for his decision. The Nigerian international confirmed the move via a personal statement shared on X, where he expressed his frustration over the club’s handling of a potential transfer.

‘I have loved every moment but feel that now, after three wonderful years in Bergamo, it is the right time to move on and experience a new adventure,’ Lookman wrote.

He went on to reveal that there had been ongoing interest from several clubs in the past, but he had consistently remained loyal to Atalanta.

‘There have been numerous clubs approach Atalanta in the past and I have previously always stayed loyal.

However, myself and the ownership of the club have been in agreement that now is the right time and the club were clear with me that if a fair offer came in they would allow me to move.”

Despite what he believes was a suitable bid from another club, Lookman claims Atalanta is now blocking the opportunity without explanation.

‘Despite now receiving an offer in alignment with what I believe had been discussed, sadly the club are blocking the opportunity for reasons I do not understand.’

‘As a result and after many months of broken promises and what I feel has been poor treatment towards me as both a human being and as a professional footballer, sadly I feel I have no choice but to speak out for what I believe is right and I feel that enough is enough.’

‘I can confirm I have now handed in a formal transfer request.’

The drama unfolded following reports from Sky Italy earlier this week that Inter Milan made a substantial bid of €42 million plus €3 million in bonuses (approximately £36.7m / £2.6m) for the 26-year-old forward. However, Atalanta rejected the offer, believing Lookman’s market value is higher. Inter have reportedly hit pause on further negotiations, leaving the situation at a stalemate.

With tension mounting and Lookman’s public appeal now in play, all eyes are on Atalanta to see how the saga develops.