Inter Milan president Giuseppe Marotta has confirmed the club will make a final push this week to sign Ademola Lookman from Atalanta, describing the coming days as crucial in their pursuit of the Nigerian winger.
The Nerazzurri have made Lookman their top attacking target this summer but are locked in a valuation deadlock with Atalanta. Inter tabled an initial €40 million bid earlier in July, which was swiftly rejected by their Serie A rivals. Atalanta are holding firm at €50 million a price Inter have so far been reluctant to meet.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano quoted Marotta via his official X account, claiming that Marotta admitted the club is eager to get the deal over the line soon.
He tweeted:
Inter president Marotta: “This week will be crucial for Lookman deal, We are in talks for Ademola Lookman, we want him but we also respect Atalanta. In 2-3 days we hope to proceed and be able to get the deal done otherwise we will move on and focus on other players.”
Lookman, who impressed with Atalanta last season, has already agreed to personal terms with Inter. Talks between the clubs are expected to resume again this week as Inter consider submitting an improved offer.
Despite the impasse, Inter remain confident of securing the deal. Head coach Cristian Chivu is keen to bring in the 26-year-old as part of his plan to add more pace and directness to his attack ahead of the new campaign.
Inter have also allowed for some sales. Softfootball earlier reported that Villarreal have reached an agreement to sign Canadian winger, Tajon Buchanan from Inter Milan for €9 million as documents are being signed and scheduled for medicals
However, in regards to Ademola Lookman, Inter aren’t the only club circling. Napoli and Atletico Madrid are also reportedly monitoring Lookman’s situation and could step in if talks collapse. Napoli, now under new leadership, are said to be particularly impressed by Lookman’s form in Italy and at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Inter are now racing against time either to seal the deal or move on to alternative targets before the transfer window heats up.
