Italian Journalist Reveals Backstory Of Inter Milan Pursuit Of Atalanta Talisman: ‘He Wasn’t Even A Target At First’ | OneFootball

Italian journalist Fabrizio Biasin says that initially, Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman wasn’t even on Inter Milan’s radar as a target.

Biasin explained on Telelombardia, via FCInter1908, that the Nerazzurri’s pursuit of the Nigerian is largely opportunistic after having been offered the player by his agents.

Inter Milan are reportedly pushing for a deal to sign Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman.

The links between the Nerazzurri and Lookman first emerged a couple weeks ago. Since then, Inter have made an offer, which Atalanta rejected. Then, this week they made a second bid.

Reports suggest that Inter are awaiting Atalanta’s response to their second offer imminently.

The Nerazzurri are aiming to wrap up Lookman’s signing as soon as possible.

If Inter are able to pull of a deal for Lookman, it would certainly be one of the more high profile transfers of the summer in Serie A.

Biasin: “Ademola Lookman Wasn’t Even A Target For Inter At First”

BERGAMO, ITALY – JANUARY 21: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between Atalanta BC and SK Sturm Graz at Stadio di Bergamo on January 21, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Italian journalist Fabrizio Biasin explained the background and reasoning behind Inter’s interest in Lookman.

“Inter are doing well as it is,” he said. “Oaktree don’t want to change things.”

Biasin explained that “they never said they only want to sign young players.”

“Just that they want to lower the average age of the squad.”

“Lookman obviously wasn’t a target in their plans at first,” said Biasin. “But then at some point, agents contacted them, bringing up the possibility.”

“And obviously the club management found the option to be interesting.”

“Oaktree saw the chance to further improve the team with this deal,” said Biasin. “And they gave the green light to the directors, who’ve done so well in recent years.”

Biasin anticipated that “I’d be very surprised if he didn’t arrive at Inter.”

“Particularly because there’s no Plan B, despite having read some names recently. If Lookman doesn’t arrive, Inter would have to look for a Plan B.”