Italian Journalist Delivers Verdict On Inter Milan Failed Pursuit Of Atalanta Talisman: “Marotta Waited In Vain” | OneFootball

Italian journalist Ivan Zazzaroni has offered his verdict on a summer-long transfer saga involving Inter Milan and Ademola Lookman.

According to the Corriere dello Sport reporter via FCInter1908, Beppe Marotta didn’t handle the situation well.

Despite wasting considerable time and energy on their pursuit of Ademola Lookman, Inter eventually admitted defeat.

Indeed, Atalanta’s reluctance to sell the Nigerian forward made it impossible for the Nerazzurri to complete the deal.

However, Marotta never lost hope, although the writing was on the wall from the start.

La Dea made their stance clear after sanctioning Mateo Retegui’s transfer to Saudi Arabia.

Yet, Inter kept pushing, perhaps buoyed by the player’s desire to continue his career at San Siro.

Unfortunately, it all led to nothing as Atalanta refused to negotiate the move, forcing Inter to withdraw from talks.

Meanwhile, Lookman’s status in Bergamo remains uncertain after he refused to train with the squad in the summer.

Ivan Zazzaroni Offers His Verdict on Inter Milan Busted Pursuit of Ademola Lookman

BERGAMO, ITALY – APRIL 13: Ademola Lookman during the Serie A match between Atalanta and Bologna at Gewiss Stadium on April 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Pier Marco Tacca/Getty Images)

“In Italy, we continue to climb uphill with the handbrake on,” Zazzaroni claimed.

“We proceed with last-minute loans, rights and obligations almost always conditional, clauses, easy and difficult bonuses, and above all, guarantees.

“The summer deal was essentially a media event and involved Ademola Lookman, Atalanta, and Inter.

“After receiving a rejection at €45 million, Marotta waited in vain for Percassi to respond.

“The day Ausilio went to negotiate the Zalewski deal, he communicated his surrender. Thus, a misstep.”

Meanwhile, Zazzaroni hailed Napoli’s activity in the transfer market and hailed Inter’s decision to sign Andy Diouf.

“Only Napoli acted according to an ambitious technical plan, which nevertheless allowed for some mid-course corrections.

“And now, the most interesting profiles among the youngsters.

“Andy Diouf, 22, acquired from Inter, is one of the potential surprises.

“Last year he didn’t stand out, as I pointed out, but he has an impressive range of skills.”