Ademola Lookman Skips Atalanta Training Amid Ongoing Transfer Standoff, Club Rejects Latest €45M Offer
August 5, 2025 — Bergamo, Italy
The transfer saga surrounding Nigerian international Ademola Lookman took a dramatic new turn on Tuesday morning as the forward failed to report for Atalanta’s scheduled training session, escalating tensions between the player and club over his desire to leave this summer.
Lookman, 27, has been a subject of intense transfer speculation after a stellar 2024–25 campaign in which he delivered match-winning performances both domestically and in European competition. Despite being under contract until 2027, the dynamic winger has made it clear in recent weeks that he intends to pursue a move away from Bergamo, seeking a fresh challenge after two highly successful seasons.
According to multiple Italian sources, Lookman’s absence from training is seen by many within the club as a clear act of protest, signaling his growing frustration over Atalanta’s firm refusal to accept transfer bids deemed below their valuation.
Latest Bid Rejected: €42M + €3M in Add-ons Not Enough
Last week, Atalanta reportedly rejected an offer from an unnamed Premier League club — believed to be West Ham United or Aston Villa — worth €42 million plus €3 million in add-ons for Lookman’s services. The Serie A side swiftly dismissed the bid, maintaining that any deal must reflect the player’s value as a key starter and European match-winner.
Atalanta’s top brass, including sporting director Lee Congerton, are said to have placed a €60 million price tag on Lookman — a figure they feel is justified following his sensational form across all competitions. Club officials reiterated their stance this week, noting that the latest offer falls well short of their expectations.
“Ademola is not for sale at that price. We are not under pressure to sell,” an Atalanta source told Gazzetta dello Sport. “The club values him as one of the most important players in our squad, and unless that is respected, he will stay.”
From Europa Glory to Transfer Dispute
Lookman’s stock has risen dramatically following a breakout season that saw him score 18 goals and provide 10 assists across all competitions. He was particularly electric during Atalanta’s Europa League-winning campaign, where he etched his name into club history with a hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.
His pace, directness, and eye for goal have turned him into one of the most sought-after wide players in Europe. Several clubs — including suitors from England, Germany, and Saudi Arabia — have expressed interest, but Atalanta have remained adamant: Lookman is not leaving on a cut-price deal.
This resolve, however, is now being tested as Lookman becomes increasingly vocal — and now visibly demonstrative — in his desire to force a move.
Growing Tensions Behind the Scenes
Sources close to Lookman suggest the player is unhappy with how negotiations have stalled and believes his contributions to Atalanta’s success merit greater flexibility from the club.
“Ademola feels he’s earned the right to take the next step in his career,” one of his representatives told Sky Italia. “He’s given everything to Atalanta and is not looking to burn bridges, but he also wants clarity and fairness regarding his future.”
Club officials, however, are reportedly disappointed with the way Lookman has handled the situation, particularly his decision to skip training without authorization. Discussions are expected between his representatives and Atalanta executives in the coming days to determine whether disciplinary measures will be taken.
Atalanta Standing Firm
Despite the mounting pressure, Atalanta’s position remains unchanged — at least for now. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who is preparing for a season that includes Champions League football, views Lookman as a central figure in his tactical setup. The club has already begun preseason with a focus on continuity and squad stability, making the potential loss of one of their brightest stars a major disruption.
“We are building something important here,” Gasperini said in a recent press conference. “Lookman has been a fantastic player for us, and we hope he continues to be. But everyone must respect the team and the club.”
What Happens Next?
The coming week could prove pivotal. If Lookman continues to push for a move and Atalanta refuse to budge on their asking price, a full-blown standoff may ensue — one that could impact squad morale and preseason preparation. Alternatively, if a club steps forward with a significantly improved offer closer to Atalanta’s €60 million valuation, negotiations could resume swiftly.
Premier League clubs still have the financial muscle to meet that valuation, and with Lookman known to favor a return to England — where he previously played for Leicester City, Everton, and Fulham — there may yet be movement before the window closes.
Final Thoughts
Ademola Lookman’s decision to skip training is a clear signal that the player is ready to take matters into his own hands to secure a transfer. But Atalanta’s resolve — backed by Champions League ambitions and a firm valuation — means this won’t be a straightforward exit.
Both sides are now on a collision course, and unless compromise is found soon, the situation could grow more complicated. For Lookman, the clock is ticking. For Atalanta, the message is clear: not at that price.
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