Atalanta’s hierarchy has disclosed their decision to turn down a €20 million bid from Paris Saint-Germain for forward Ademola Lookman in 2023, amid the Nigerian international’s current push to join Inter Milan. Club CEO Antonio Percassi confirmed the rejected offer while explaining a prior agreement with the player, which now appears to clash with Lookman’s latest career ambitions.
Speaking publicly about the situation, Percassi revealed a verbal pact struck last year between the club and the 26-year-old winger. At the time, Atalanta opted to reject PSG’s multimillion-euro proposal on the condition that Lookman would remain with the Serie A side until 2025, at which point he could depart for a “super top club” outside Italy. “The pact with Lookman was made one year ago when we rejected €20m from PSG,” Percassi stated. “We told him: we’ll let you leave in 2025 for a super top club and not in Italy. Now, the situation [with Inter] is different… and as always, it’s us deciding.”
The agreement’s terms have come under scrutiny after Lookman formally submitted a transfer request on Sunday, seeking to expedite a move to Inter Milan this summer. The development signals a pivot from the initial plan, as the Nerazzurri—despite their stature as Serie A contenders—are direct domestic rivals, complicating Atalanta’s stance. Percassi’s remarks underscore the club’s intent to retain control over the player’s future, emphasizing that any transfer would hinge on their valuation and strategic interests.
Lookman’s desire for a new challenge follows a standout 2023–24 campaign, during which he scored 17 goals across all competitions, including a decisive hat-trick in Atalanta’s historic Europa League final victory over Bayer Leverkusen. His performances have amplified interest from elite European clubs, though Inter’s pursuit introduces fresh tension. Under Italian football regulations, a “gentleman’s agreement” such as the one described lacks legal enforceability, relying instead on mutual trust—a dynamic now tested by competing priorities.
Industry analysts suggest Atalanta could demand a fee exceeding €40 million to part ways with Lookman ahead of schedule, reflecting his elevated market value and contractual status through 2026. The club’s firm negotiating position aligns with their recent success in retaining key players amid external interest, a strategy that has solidified their position as Serie A’s fourth-strongest side by revenue.
As discussions continue, the outcome may hinge on Inter’s willingness to meet Atalanta’s financial demands or structure a deal involving player exchanges. For now, Percassi’s reiteration that “it’s us deciding” signals resolve, even as Lookman’s transfer request adds pressure to resolve the impasse before the summer window closes. The situation underscores the delicate balance clubs face in navigating player ambitions, contractual nuances, and competitive rivalries in modern football’s high-stakes transfer market.
