Inter’s €45 Million Bid Rejected: Atalanta Hold Out for €50 Million Price Tag on Ademola Lookman

In what is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested transfer sagas of the summer, Inter Milan have officially tabled a €40 million bid plus an additional €5 million in add-ons for red-hot Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman. However, sources from Italy report that Atalanta have immediately turned down the offer, standing firm on their €50 million valuation of the player. The news, first reported by The Nation Nigeria, has ignited a wave of speculation, reactions, and debate across both the Italian and Nigerian footballing communities as the 2025 summer transfer window intensifies.

Ademola Lookman’s explosive form in the Serie A has not gone unnoticed. Since arriving at Atalanta, the 26-year-old has been nothing short of electrifying, delivering goal after goal and demonstrating his ability to thrive under pressure. His performances in both domestic competitions and European fixtures have positioned him as one of the league's most valuable assets, and it is no surprise that a club of Inter Milan’s stature is making aggressive moves to bring him to the San Siro. But Atalanta’s firm stance suggests they are not willing to part ways with their star man on the cheap.

According to insiders close to the negotiation table, Inter Milan had hoped that their €45 million package—consisting of €40 million upfront and €5 million in performance-based bonuses—would be enough to sway the Bergamo-based club into a sale. However, Atalanta's response was swift and decisive: Lookman will not leave unless the €50 million valuation is fully met. The rejection underscores the club’s determination to retain control over their key players, especially one as pivotal as Lookman, who has been instrumental in their European campaigns and consistent domestic performances.

Inter’s interest in Lookman is no secret. With their attacking options looking to be reshuffled amid potential exits and injury concerns, the Nerazzurri see Lookman as the ideal addition to bolster their frontline. His versatility—being able to play across the front line, his quick feet, and sharp eye for goal—make him a natural fit for Inter’s high-pressing, fast-paced attacking setup. The club's hierarchy had reportedly identified him as their primary attacking target, and the submitted bid was seen as a strong signal of intent. However, the ball now lies squarely in Atalanta’s court, and they appear unwilling to budge unless the full asking price is paid.

Lookman’s own stance remains unclear. While the forward has shown no public signs of agitating for a move, sources suggest that he is flattered by the interest from Inter Milan and would be open to a move that offers UEFA Champions League football and a chance to compete for the Scudetto. Nevertheless, the Nigerian international remains fully committed to Atalanta until any agreement is officially reached. His professionalism on and off the pitch has earned him the respect of fans and management alike, and it is likely that any potential exit will be handled with utmost respect and transparency.

Back in Nigeria, Lookman’s rise continues to captivate the football-loving nation. From representing the Super Eagles with pride to starring in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues, his success is widely celebrated. The news of a potential big-money move to Inter Milan has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with fans eagerly weighing in on whether the move would benefit his career or whether staying at Atalanta might be a wiser decision for continued growth and stability.

Financially, Atalanta's €50 million demand is not outlandish when placed in the context of today's market. Comparable players in the same age bracket and output level have commanded similar or even higher fees. Atalanta believe they have every right to demand top dollar for a player who not only scores but also assists, creates chances, and consistently turns up in big games. Lookman’s memorable hat-trick in last season’s Europa League final remains fresh in everyone's minds, and performances like that only serve to increase his value in the transfer market.

Inter Milan, on the other hand, must now decide whether to meet the €50 million price tag or risk losing out on one of their primary summer targets. With other European clubs monitoring the situation closely, there is also the added pressure of potential competition should Inter fail to act swiftly. The club’s directors, led by CEO Giuseppe Marotta, are expected to return with a renewed offer or strategy in the coming days, especially with the new Serie A season just weeks away.

This stalemate between the two Italian clubs could set the tone for how transfer negotiations are handled going forward, particularly when it comes to intra-league deals involving star players. Both clubs have much at stake. For Atalanta, holding onto Lookman or getting the full valuation could determine how well they perform in the upcoming season. For Inter, securing the deal could be the difference between another title charge or falling short once again.

The coming days will be crucial. Will Inter dig deeper into their coffers to satisfy Atalanta’s demand, or will they walk away and pursue other targets? And if the deal collapses, will Lookman remain motivated and focused at Atalanta, or will the rejected move cast a shadow over his performances? One thing is clear: Ademola Lookman’s future is now one of the biggest talking points in the summer transfer market, and wherever he ends up, he will be expected to deliver at the highest level.

As the clock ticks down on the transfer window, all eyes are on Inter and Atalanta. But for now, the message from Bergamo is loud and clear: Ademola Lookman is not for sale—unless the price is right.