Nigerian international Ademola Lookman has confirmed that he has submitted a formal transfer request to leave Atalanta.
Lookman, in his transfer request on Sunday, expressed his gratitude to the club and its fans, but cited a disagreement over a potential transfer deal as the reason for his request.
Lookman wrote: “Over the past three years at Atalanta, I’ve given absolutely everything. Not just as a footballer, but as a person.
“I’ve always worn the shirt with pride and tried to represent this club and the city of Bergamo with heart, passion and dedication.”
He added: “Atalanta, and especially its supporters, have become a part of me. This place has felt like home from the moment I arrived, and I’ve always tried to repay that love – even in moments where things haven’t been easy behind the scenes.”
The 27-year-old forward revealed that he and the club had agreed that he could leave if a fair offer was made.
However, despite receiving an offer that aligned with previous discussions, the club has blocked the opportunity for reasons Lookman does 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 feel that enough is enough,” he said.
Persecondnews reports that Atalanta remains adamant that it will take a fee of €50m to sign Lookman this summer.
Inter Milan’s most recent offer reportedly stood at €42m plus €3m in bonuses, which was not accepted.
According to reports, Lookman desires to join Inter this summer, and the Nerazzurri may come back with an improved offer for the forward.
Lookman apologized to the fans, saying: “To the fans – the heartbeat of this club – I want to say this: I’m truly sorry it’s come to this. I hope you can understand this incredibly difficult situation. It’s simply about standing up for what I believe is fair and right.”
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