Inter's Pursuit of Ademola Lookman is Hijacked by Napoli With a €52 Million Bid.

Inter Milan has withdrawn from the competition for Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman, thereby allowing Napoli the opportunity to make a significant €52 million offer for the Atalanta forward. As reported by the Italian media outlet SportMediaset, Inter's pursuit of Ademola Lookman is now considered "frozen" following Atalanta's rejection of two formal offers. The Nerazzurri initially proposed €40 million, later returning with an enhanced offer of €45 million, which included add-ons; however, both proposals were declined as the Bergamo club remained steadfast in their €50 million valuation. The extended negotiations, which have persisted for over a month, led Lookman to take action himself. The Super Eagles star has reportedly requested a transfer and has not participated in training sessions for more than a week in an effort to facilitate a move. Conversely, Napoli is now positioned to take advantage of Inter's exit. Transfer market analyst Luca Cerchione disclosed that the current Serie A Champions are prepared to meet Atalanta's requirements. "Lookman, Napoli has allocated a €52 million deposit, a figure considered suitable by Atalanta," Cerchione stated. "The Neapolitan club must determine whether to persuade the player, who is currently more inclined towards Inter, to forgo their fifth midfielder, or to completely abandon the pursuit of the Nigerian." This development is noteworthy, especially since Ademola Lookman had already settled on personal terms with Inter and seemed destined for the San Siro. With their pursuit concluded, the Nerazzurri will now redirect their transfer budget towards bolstering their defense, with Udinese’s Oumar Solet at the top of their list, in addition to seeking a holding midfielder. Atalanta manager Ivan Juric has expressed concerns regarding the potential loss of another key attacker following top scorer Mateo Retegui’s transfer to Saudi Arabia. "We have lost players who contributed 80-90 percent of our goals, and replacing them will not be an easy task," Juric acknowledged. The local publication L’Eco di Bergamo has reported that Atalanta has only received formal offers from Inter up to this point; however, Napoli's readiness to exceed €50 million may shift the situation in their favor.