Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has officially requested a transfer from Atalanta, citing broken promises and poor treatment by the Serie A club despite his contributions and loyalty since joining in 2022.
In a heartfelt and pointed statement posted on Instagram, the 27-year-old Europa League winner accused Atalanta of reneging on a mutual agreement to let him leave if a reasonable offer came in. According to Lookman, the club has now received such an offer, yet continues to block his exit.
“Despite now receiving an offer in alignment with what I believe had been discussed, sadly, the club are blocking the opportunity for reasons I do not understand,” Lookman wrote. “There have been numerous clubs approached Atalanta in the past, and I have previously always stayed loyal.”
He expressed deep disappointment over what he described as “months of broken promises” and emotional distress, adding, “I feel that enough is enough. I can confirm I have now handed in a formal transfer request.”
Lookman’s post also highlighted his emotional connection with the club and fans, stating that Atalanta “felt like home” from the moment he arrived in Bergamo. He said he had always represented the club with “heart, passion and dedication,” even during difficult personal moments kept private from the public.
“I’ve always worn the shirt with pride and tried to represent this club and the city of Bergamo… Winning the Europa League and standing shoulder to shoulder with my teammates that night in Dublin… was one of the proudest moments of my career so far,” he recalled.
The Nigerian international emphasized that both he and the club’s ownership had previously agreed it was time for him to move on, provided a fair offer was presented. He claimed that condition has been met, yet the club has refused to honour it.
“To the fans – the heartbeat of this club – I want to say this: I’m truly sorry it’s come to this,” Lookman said in an emotional apology. “It’s simply about standing up for what I believe is fair and right.”
He ended his message by expressing hope for an “amicable solution” that would benefit all parties.
Lookman joined Atalanta in August 2022 from RB Leipzig for €15 million and made an instant impact, scoring on his Serie A debut. He played a pivotal role in the club’s historic 2023–24 UEFA Europa League title and became the first active Atalanta player to receive a Ballon d’Or nomination. In 2024, he was crowned CAF African Footballer of the Year.
What You Should Know
Ademola Lookman, one of Atalanta’s brightest stars, is seeking a departure after two impactful seasons that saw him help deliver a historic Europa League title.
His public statement marks a rare emotional appeal for fairness and transparency in transfer dealings.
With individual accolades like CAF African Footballer of the Year and a Ballon d’Or nomination under his belt, Lookman’s next move will be closely watched across Europe.
