Ademola Lookman’s anticipated exit from Atalanta is no longer a certainty, despite strong interest from Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester United, Soccernet.ng understands.
Just weeks ago, it seemed inevitable that the Nigerian international would leave the Bergamo-based side.
However, Italian transfer insider Alfredo Pedullà now reports that the dynamics have changed significantly following the departure of long-time Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini.
Gasperini, who spent nine seasons in charge at the Gewiss Stadium, played a transformative role in Lookman’s career. Having arrived in Italy as a traditional winger with inconsistent form in England, Lookman evolved into a prolific inverted forward under the Italian tactician.
His crowning moment came last season when he scored a sensational hat-trick in the Europa League final to hand Atalanta their first-ever European trophy.
It was also the first major title for Gasperini, a two-time Serie A Coach of the Year and one of Italy’s most respected managers.
But the fairy tale turned sour earlier this year. Tensions flared between player and coach after Atalanta’s abrupt Champions League exit, with Gasperini evidently placing the blame on Lookman. The 27-year-old reacted strongly, issuing a public statement that hinted at deeper friction behind the scenes.
Though Atalanta’s management brokered a truce between the two to see out the season, it became clear that their relationship had irreparably broken down. Gasperini eventually confirmed his departure and has since taken over at AS Roma. His exit seemed to pave the way for Lookman’s departure as well.
However, with the club appointing Ivan Juric, formerly of Torino, as the new manager, Lookman’s situation is more complex than ever. According to Pedullà, Atalanta may be hesitant to let the Nigerian leave, particularly if Brazilian midfielder Ederson — another key figure — is sold this summer.
“Twenty days ago, I would’ve said Lookman was 100 percent leaving,” Pedullà said via Calcio Napoli.
“Now it’s more complicated. His relationship with Gasperini had deteriorated, and he had asked to leave. But if Ederson goes, Atalanta may think twice before allowing Lookman to leave as well.”
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Ademola Lookman u-turn: Why Atalanta legend may now snub Liverpool, Arsenal and Man United
Despite the uncertainty, Lookman remains a hot commodity in the transfer market.
Arsenal, Manchester United, Juventus and Napoli are all monitoring his situation, while Liverpool are reportedly preparing to make another approach for the 27-year-old.
New Liverpool manager Arne Slot is said to be keen on freshening up his attacking options, having only added Federico Chiesa to the squad since taking over.
The Reds, fresh off a historic 20th league title, are reported to have explored a swap deal involving Chiesa in a bid to convince Atalanta to sell.
Lookman, who is under contract until 2027, contributed 27 goal involvements in 39 appearances across all competitions last season — his most productive campaign to date.
Still considered an icon in Bergamo, the forward’s future is likely to hinge on a combination of Atalanta’s summer dealings and Juric’s vision for the team. For now, what once looked like a guaranteed exit has become one of Serie A’s most intriguing transfer sagas.