Romano reveals Lookman missed training due to secret Atalanta deal

Posted : 19 February 2025

Fabrizio Romano recently provided insights into the transfer saga surrounding Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, revealing key details about his situation leading up to the closing of the 2024 summer transfer window. Lookman, who was named African Footballer of the Year, was heavily linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain in August. However, PSG's manager, Luis Enrique, opted to rely on the existing squad to cover for the injured Gonçalo Ramos instead of pursuing a transfer.

Speaking to Viva el Futbol, Romano indicated that the summer of 2024 could be pivotal for Lookman’s future, as tensions surrounding his transfer intentions had already escalated in the previous summer. The player’s situation at Atalanta seemed to have become increasingly complicated due to behind-the-scenes disagreements.

Romano explained that, in 2023, Lookman had a verbal agreement with Atalanta that he would be allowed to leave the club in 2024 for a fee of €30-35 million. However, after his stunning performance in the 2023 Europa League final, where he scored a historic hat-trick in a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, that price tag became unrealistic.

As the summer transfer window unfolded, PSG put forward an offer that matched the agreed amount. Yet, Atalanta, recognizing Lookman’s rising value, was reluctant to accept the deal. Additionally, the club had already been preparing to sell another key player, Teun Koopmeiners, which further complicated matters.

This situation sparked a period of unrest within the team, with Lookman reportedly skipping training sessions as a form of protest. Although the tension eventually subsided, Romano suggested that Lookman’s desire for a move had not diminished and that his situation remained unresolved.

With the next transfer window fast approaching, Atalanta may face a dilemma: either honor their initial agreement with Lookman or brace for another round of negotiations and potential conflicts. The club could be forced to decide whether to allow him to leave or risk further disruption within the squad.

Meanwhile, Lookman is set to return to action after a six-game absence due to a knee injury. He is expected to feature in Atalanta’s Champions League clash against Club Brugge. As his contract with Atalanta nears its final year at the end of this season, his future remains uncertain, and his next move could significantly impact both his career and Atalanta’s plans.

Romano reveals Lookman missed training due to secret Atalanta deal

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