Atalanta manager Ivan Juric admits Ademola Lookman’s future is uncertain amid interest from Inter Milan. Lookman is training separately, seeking a move, but Atalanta’s CEO prefers a transfer outside Italy’s top league. Juric hopes for more signings before the deadline, adding complexity to Lookman’s potential reintegration into the squad.
Atalanta's manager, Ivan Juric, has cast doubt over the future of Ademola Lookman at the club, fueling speculation of a potential move to Inter Milan before the transfer window closes. With only a few days remaining in the window, Juric admitted he is unsure whether the Nigerian international will remain in Bergamo or secure a transfer.
Lookman has reportedly been training separately from the main Atalanta squad, indicating his desire to push through a move to Inter. The Nerazzurri had a bid for the winger rejected late last month, but their interest remains strong. However, Atalanta's chief executive, Luca Percassi, has previously stated that Lookman would only be allowed to leave for a club outside of Italy's top flight, complicating the situation.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Juric confessed his uncertainty regarding Lookman's situation. "I don't know anything about Lookman," he said. "It's difficult to hazard a guess on what will happen or if he will remain." This ambiguity from the manager suggests that Lookman's future is far from resolved and could go either way in the final days of the transfer window.
The situation is further complicated by Atalanta's desire to strengthen their squad before the deadline. Juric expressed his hope for more signings to bolster the team's options as they prepare to compete on multiple fronts this season. "I think that could still get some more moves done before the transfer deadline," he stated, hinting at potential incomings to balance out any potential departures.
If Lookman does not secure a move to Inter, Juric faces the challenge of reintegrating the player back into the squad. The forward's current training situation suggests that he may not be fully committed to Atalanta, which could create a difficult dynamic within the team. Juric will need to assess Lookman's attitude and fitness levels before deciding whether he can be a valuable asset for the season ahead.
The potential arrival of new signings could also impact Lookman's role in the squad. If Atalanta brings in additional attacking players, his playing time may be further reduced, making a move to Inter even more appealing. However, if Juric fails to secure his desired targets, he may be more inclined to keep Lookman as a backup option.
Ultimately, Lookman's future hinges on several factors, including Inter's willingness to increase their bid, Atalanta's ability to find suitable replacements, and the player's own determination to force a move. With the transfer window rapidly approaching its conclusion, a resolution is expected in the coming days, bringing clarity to Lookman's situation and Atalanta's squad composition for the season ahead.
The saga surrounding Ademola Lookman's potential transfer has added an element of uncertainty to Atalanta's preparations for the new season. Juric will be eager to resolve the situation as quickly as possible so that he can focus on building a cohesive and competitive team capable of challenging for silverware.
As the clock ticks down towards the transfer deadline, all eyes will be on Lookman and Atalanta to see if a deal can be struck with Inter or whether the Nigerian international will remain in Bergamo for the foreseeable future. The outcome will undoubtedly have a significant impact on both clubs' ambitions for the season ahead.