Atalanta skipper Marten De Roon has said the squad will embrace Ademola Lookman once his ongoing issues with the club are resolved.
The Nigerian international has been frozen out so far this season, missing all three Serie A fixtures and the Champions League clash with PSG. His absence is tied to a fallout with the club following a failed transfer during the summer window.
Lookman had pushed for a move to Inter Milan, but Atalanta refused to sanction the switch unless their €50m valuation was met. Inter’s offer fell short, leaving the 26-year-old frustrated and sparking a standoff that has seen him sidelined.
Both head coach Ivan Juric and director Luca Percassi have hinted that attitude concerns played a role in his exclusion. Still, De Roon insists the team holds no grudges. “He (Lookman) didn’t disturb us. We’re focused on those available, but there will always be space for him,” he told Gianluca Di Marzio.
Lookman’s record since arriving in Bergamo underlines his importance—52 goals and 25 assists in 112 games across three seasons. For now, however, his only path is to remain at Atalanta until January, as potential moves to Fenerbahce and Galatasaray were ruled out when the Turkish transfer market shut on September 12.
The standoff has drawn plenty of attention in Italy, as Lookman has been one of Atalanta’s most consistent performers since joining from RB Leipzig in 2022. His goals were vital in their domestic campaign and in European competitions, where he became a fan favourite for his explosive pace and direct attacking style.
Supporters of the Bergamo club remain divided, with some frustrated by his strike action during the summer, while others believe the club’s hardline stance over his valuation prevented a fair outcome. Inter Milan’s continued interest suggests the saga may resume when the January transfer market opens, though much will depend on Atalanta’s willingness to compromise.
For now, Lookman faces the challenge of regaining trust both within the dressing room and with the fans. De Roon’s comments offer hope that relationships can be repaired, but until he is reintegrated into the squad, questions will persist about his role under Juric.
If he does return to action, his quality could be decisive in Atalanta’s push for success in Serie A and Europe this season.
