In the ever-unpredictable theatre of the summer transfer window, a familiar narrative is unfolding: a coveted player, a determined suitor, and a selling club playing its cards close to its chest. The spotlight this time falls on Ademola Lookman, the Atalanta forward, whose expressed desire to depart Bergamo has ignited a high-stakes negotiation with Italian giants Inter Milan.
The Unveiling of the Bid
Luca Percassi, the Chief Executive Officer of Atalanta, recently broke his club`s silence on the Lookman situation during a press conference at Zingonia. His statements provided a rare glimpse into the meticulous, often opaque, world of football transfers. Percassi confirmed what had been simmering in whispers: Inter Milan has officially tabled a written offer for the Nigerian international.
Inter`s bid stands at a notable €42 million, supplemented by an additional €3 million in performance-related bonuses, bringing the total potential package to €45 million. A substantial figure, certainly, but one that still falls short of Atalanta`s steadfast valuation.
Atalanta`s Unwavering Stance
For some time, Lookman has made his intentions clear: he wishes to pursue a new challenge away from Atalanta. This isn`t a surprise to the Bergamo club; Percassi himself noted, “In our considerations, he was the player who could have left; more or less, one sale per session happens.” This statement underscores Atalanta`s well-established business model of identifying, nurturing, and eventually monetizing talent, a strategy that has kept them competitive at the highest levels of Italian and European football.
However, while acknowledging Lookman`s desire, Percassi delivered a crisp, unambiguous message regarding the club`s position:
“Despite many expressions of interest, there had been nothing concrete for Ademola until yesterday when Inter’s written proposal arrived. We will evaluate the offer and then provide a response. The timing of departure and the value of players are decided only by Atalanta.”
This declaration, delivered with an almost philosophical detachment, is a masterclass in market control. It effectively communicates that while offers are welcome, the ultimate terms of any transaction remain firmly in Atalanta`s hands. It`s a pragmatic stance that has served them well, preventing them from being strong-armed in the market, even if it occasionally extends negotiations beyond the comfort of impatient fans or rival clubs.
The €5 Million Impasse
The core of the current impasse lies in a €5 million difference. Atalanta values Lookman at €50 million, a figure they believe accurately reflects his impact, potential, and market standing. Inter`s €45 million offer, while robust, simply doesn`t meet this threshold. This is where the art of negotiation truly begins, or perhaps, stalls.
The unexpected sale of another key player, Retegui, was also mentioned by Percassi, a subtle reminder that Atalanta has demonstrated a willingness to sell when conditions align with their strategic vision. Yet, the emphasis remains on their prerogative to dictate the terms, not merely react to them.
What Lies Ahead?
The ball is now firmly in Atalanta`s court. Their “evaluation” of Inter`s written offer will determine the immediate future of Ademola Lookman. Will Inter raise its bid to meet Atalanta`s asking price? Or will Atalanta, known for its shrewd dealings, soften its stance, perhaps finding a middle ground that satisfies both parties?
Football transfers are rarely linear. A player`s desire to move can certainly apply pressure, but as Percassi`s comments make clear, Atalanta is not a club easily swayed from its meticulously calculated valuations. The coming days will reveal whether Lookman`s ambition, Inter`s pursuit, or Atalanta`s unwavering resolve will ultimately prevail in this intriguing summer saga.
Murray Blackwood