Atalanta CEO Antonio Percassi has revealed that the club rejected a €20 million offer from Paris Saint-Germain for Nigerian international Ademola Lookman last year, as transfer tensions mount following the player's recent request to join Inter Milan.
Speaking about a gentleman's agreement with Lookman, Percassi disclosed that the club had promised to let the Super Eagles star leave in 2025, but only to a "super top club" outside of 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."
This revelation comes after Lookman reportedly submitted a formal transfer request to Atalanta on Sunday, attempting to force a move to Serie A rivals Inter Milan this summer. The situation has created tension between the player and the club, with reports suggesting Lookman is "angry" at Atalanta's handling of potential transfer offers.
The Nigerian forward has been a standout performer for Atalanta since joining the club, with his stock rising significantly following impressive performances both in Serie A and European competitions. His transfer saga highlights ongoing concerns about the valuation of Nigerian players in the European transfer market.
Atalanta appears determined to maintain control over Lookman's future, with Percassi emphasizing that the final decision remains with the club despite any prior agreements with the player.
The situation continues to develop as the transfer window progresses, with Inter Milan reportedly still interested in securing the Nigerian international's services despite Atalanta's reluctance to sell to a direct Serie A competitor.
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