In the intricate world of top-tier football transfers, where ambition often collides with financial pragmatism, Inter Milan finds itself locked in a determined pursuit. Their latest target: Ademola Lookman, the dynamic Nigerian forward from Atalanta. As the summer transfer window gathers pace, Inter`s management, led by the shrewd duo Marotta and Ausilio, is reportedly preparing a decisive new bid to finally secure their man, a player deemed essential for coach Chivu’s tactical vision.
The Player`s Unwavering Desire
Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Lookman`s mind is made up. His desire to join the Nerazzurri is not merely a preference but a strong conviction. A draft agreement for a five-year contract, reportedly ranging from €4.5 million net per season initially, rising to €5 million, is already on the table. This clear intention from the player has, perhaps, emboldened Inter. It’s a classic move in football negotiations: secure the player’s consent first, then tackle the club.
In a testament to his commitment to Inter, Lookman has reportedly turned down advances from other significant clubs, including Serie A champions Napoli and Spanish giants Atletico Madrid. This display of loyalty is a powerful, albeit silent, negotiating chip in the high-stakes game of player transfers.
Atalanta: The Firm Negotiator
Atalanta, however, is no easy counterpart. Known for their astute financial management and robust transfer policies, the Bergamasco club has consistently held firm on their valuation of Lookman, reportedly set at €50 million. Their stance has been unambiguous: no to loan deals with compulsory purchase clauses; only a direct, permanent transfer will suffice. This insistence underscores their position of strength, particularly given Lookman`s crucial role in their recent successes.
“In football, securing the player`s commitment is often half the battle. The other half, unfortunately, involves convincing a selling club that their star asset is truly worth every penny of your carefully crafted bid.”
Inter`s Renewed Offensive
Having seen an initial offer of €40 million rejected, Inter is now poised to increase their bid. The revised proposal is expected to raise the fixed component by €2-3 million, pushing the total cash upfront to approximately €42-43 million. This new sum would then be supplemented by performance-related bonuses, aiming to bridge the gap towards Atalanta`s €50 million asking price. Crucially, this improved offer will shift from a loan-to-buy format to an outright permanent acquisition, aligning with Atalanta’s demands.
The financing structure might also see some innovation. Inter is reportedly considering spreading the payment of Lookman’s transfer fee over several financial years, a strategy successfully employed by Juventus in their acquisition of Koopmeiners last year. While the payment structure might echo past deals, Inter`s directors are keen to avoid a protracted negotiation marathon, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution. “Endless talks,” as one might put it, are simply not on the agenda.
The Crucial Meeting Ahead
All eyes are now on the upcoming week, specifically from Tuesday onwards, when representatives from Inter and Atalanta are scheduled to meet again. This gathering is anticipated to be the pivotal moment in the Lookman saga. It`s where the diplomatic efforts of Lookman`s agents and Inter`s persistent bidding will either culminate in a handshake or, perhaps, a temporary stalemate.
For Inter Milan, Lookman represents more than just a striker; he’s the player who could complete their attacking jigsaw. For Atalanta, it’s about extracting maximum value for a prized asset while maintaining their competitive edge. As the football world watches, this transfer battle promises to be a fascinating study in negotiation and strategic ambition.
Murray Blackwood