Atalanta Stand Firm as Ademola Lookman Transfer Saga Intensifies

Atalanta have made it clear they will not let Ademola Lookman leave on a loan with a buy option, putting interested clubs like Bayern Munich and Tottenham on notice that only a permanent deal or a guaranteed obligation to buy will be considered.

WHAT IS GOING ON WITH LOOKMAN?

Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian international and reigning African Player of the Year, has been a key figure at Atalanta since joining the club. This summer, his future has become the center of transfer speculation. Tottenham Hotspur are pushing to sign him before the window closes, while Bayern Munich and several Italian clubs have also expressed their interest. Atalanta, however, are holding their ground and have reportedly rejected several bids, including one from Inter Milan, which was for €40 million plus €3 million in add-ons according to reports. Meanwhile, Lookman has been left out of pre-season training and initial match squads, fueling talk that he could leave. Despite this, Atalanta insist that only a permanent transfer or a guaranteed obligation to buy would be acceptable, ruling out any loan deal involving a simple option to buy.

THE STATE OF ATALANTA AND LOOKMAN THIS SEASON

Atalanta started the 2025-26 Serie A season poorly, sitting in the bottom half in the table after draws against Pisa and Parma. Their next match is at home against Lecce, who are another relegation contender. Lookman’s absence from the squad so far has been noticeable—last season he was Atalanta’s top scorer with 13 goals and 8 assists in 31 league appearances as confirmed in reports. Despite the ongoing transfer saga, his quality and output are still sorely missed in the early fixtures. The club is keen to avoid weakening the squad as they aim for another Champions League qualification push.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

With the transfer window closing tomorrow night, time is running out for interested clubs to reach an agreement with Atalanta. Tottenham and Bayern must move quickly if they wish to add Lookman to their squads this season. Atalanta’s firm position means any club hoping to sign the forward must prepare a significant permanent offer. If no deal is reached, Lookman could remain at Atalanta, but his omission from match squads suggests tensions that may need resolving once the window closes. For now, the club’s next fixture against Parma may pass without their star attacker, and fans will be watching closely to see where he will play this season.