Atalanta Finally Breaks Silence on Ademola Lookman’s Future

Atalanta manager Ivan Juric has admitted that Ademola Lookman’s future at the Bergamo club remains unresolved, with the Nigerian forward still linked with a late move away before the transfer window shuts.

Juric, who addressed the media ahead of Saturday’s Serie A trip to Parma, said he cannot predict whether Lookman will remain part of his squad beyond the coming days. The 2024 CAF Player of the Year has been the subject of intense transfer speculation since his proposed switch to Inter Milan broke down earlier this summer.

“I really don’t have an answer when it comes to Lookman. It’s difficult to say if he will still be with us or if something else will happen before the market closes,” Juric said.

Lookman’s summer has been far from smooth. After Inter’s approach was rejected by Atalanta, the 27-year-old forward reportedly stayed away from training for two weeks without permission and wiped his social media of Atalanta-related content. The incident cast further doubt on his commitment, although he has since returned to group training and has been reintegrated with the squad.

Despite the turbulence, Lookman’s numbers from last season remain a reminder of his importance. He finished the 2024/25 campaign with 20 goals and seven assists across competitions, underlining his value as one of Atalanta’s most decisive players. He is contracted to the club until June 2027, but interest continues to grow across Europe.

Tottenham Hotspur are the latest side linked with the Nigerian international, with reports suggesting the Premier League outfit are monitoring developments closely as Ange Postecoglou looks to strengthen his attacking options before deadline day.

Juric, while cautious over Lookman’s situation, also used his press briefing to highlight squad matters. He confirmed that midfielder Ederson will not feature against Parma due to injury, and he expressed hope that Atalanta could complete more transfers before the window closes.

For now, the uncertainty surrounding Lookman remains the biggest talking point in Bergamo. Whether he stays to spearhead Atalanta’s push this season or secures a late transfer will likely be decided in the coming days.