Why Ademola Lookman’s exit would be a big relief for Atalanta

Serie A side Atalanta are very close to selling Ademola Lookman to Atletico Madrid, with an agreement now in place between all the parties.

While for outsiders, this would come as a blow for La Dea, it really is not. The Bergamo club have been through quite a bit because of the attackers’ tantrums and constant wishes to depart the club as soon as he can.

This began right after his hat-trick in the Europa League final of 2024. He was actively seeking a move to Paris Saint-Germain, with Lookman’s agent also clarifying that he is keen on leaving. Arsenal were also mentioned as a suitor at that point but nothing moved, as Gian Piero Gasperini also dropped the attacker from the squad at that point.

It didn’t stop there. In the summer of 2025, Ivan Juric also faced similar problems about the Nigerian.

His decision to leave had become clear, as the player essentially handed in a transfer request. Juric did the same as Gasperini, dropping Lookman entirely from the squad for major games. He also called out his commitment publicly, clarifying that he needs more commitment from him.

Lookman did return to the first-team fold but his form has clearly dipped. He leaves after having multiple controversies, essentially delaying the inevitable. It should’ve happened earlier but Lookman’s relationship with the club’s fans also went downhill and his larger reputation also took a hit.

He turned into a problem child and it was a long time coming.

Kaustubh Pandey I GIFN