Former Nigeria striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has weighed in on Ademola Lookman’s transfer stand-off with Atalanta, Soccernet.ng reports.
Aiyegbeni identified the need for the Super Eagles winger to surround himself with experienced, trustworthy figures who can steer him through complex negotiations.
Lookman, who etched his name into Atalanta folklore by firing them to their first-ever Europa League triumph, is now at odds with the Serie A club. The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations standout is pushing for a move to Inter Milan, who have tabled a €45m bid and agreed personal terms with the forward.
However, Atalanta have flatly refused to sell to a domestic rival. The 27-year-old claims a “gentleman’s agreement” struck last summer guaranteed his release if a suitable offer arrived, but the club insists that understanding applied only to foreign suitors. Inter, for their part, maintain the same interpretation.
Frustrated by the deadlock, Lookman has handed in a formal transfer request, skipped training sessions, and reportedly returned to London, moves that have further strained relations between player and club.
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Speaking to Germany-based Nigerian journalist Oma Akatugba, former Everton and Portsmouth star Yakubu expressed sympathy for Lookman’s situation while stressing the importance of shrewd, well-connected advisors in a footballer’s career.
Former NFF president Amaju Pinnick and Real Madrid icon Gaizka Mendieta are two of football’s top negotiators who would have been a big help to Lookman, says Aiyegbeni.
Yakubu Aiyegbeni on Ademola Lookman
“I feel sorry for what Ademola Lookman is going through right now,” Yakubu said.
“That’s why I always encourage players to surround themselves with strong personalities who can handle delicate negotiations. Amaju Pinnick would have done a good job, or even Gaizka Mendieta — these are people with experience and a reputation for getting things done the right way.”
Yakubu cited his own career as proof of the value of trusted counsel.
“I see Pinnick as my second father,” Aiyegbeni added.
“I remember when I had an offer from a club in Qatar, and he advised me not to rush because I was close to becoming a British citizen. That decision kept me in England, and later I got a better deal from China. Today, I’m a British citizen, and that moment defined my future. Players need to work with people who will protect their interests and help them progress, not just chase short-term gains.”
Apart from Inter Milan, Napoli, Atlético Madrid, and Arsenal are three of the clubs reportedly interested in Ademola.