Odemwingie slams Atalanta for blocking Ademola Lookman’s dream move

Nigeria and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman. Photo by IMAGO

Former Super Eagles forward Peter Odemwingie has criticised Atalanta for refusing to allow Ademola Lookman leave during the summer transfer window, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 27-year-old was at the centre of one of the biggest transfer sagas of the window that saw him fall out with the Bergamo club’s hierarchy.

Bayern Munich, Tottenham Hotspur, and Galatasaray all explored deals, while Inter Milan made an approach that was blocked due to Atalanta’s unwillingness to strengthen a Serie A rival.

Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman celebrates after scoring 1-3 during the Uefa Champions League soccer match between Atalanta BC and Club Brugge. Copyright: xSpada/LaPresseximago
The Bergamo outfit, however, stood firm on their €50m valuation and ultimately refused to sell, keeping the player against his wishes.

Odemwingie on Lookman’s Transfer
Speaking to Footy-Africa, a former Nigeria international voiced his disappointment at Atalanta’s decision.

“Lookman has exceeded every expectation since joining Atalanta. The fair thing would have been to let him pursue the path he desired,” the 43-year-old said. “They should have allowed him to follow his dream.”

“He’s played three full seasons, given his all, and even delivered European glory. What more could they have asked for? It doesn’t reflect well when a player who has carried the club on his shoulders is held back at this point in his career.”

Atalanta s Ademola Lookman celebrates after scoring 1-3 during the Uefa Champions League soccer match between Atalanta BC and Club Brugge. Copyright: xSpada/LaPresseximago
What’s next for Lookman?
Lookman, who scored 15 goals and registered five assists in 31 matches last season, remains under contract in Bergamo and has been included in Ivan Juric’s UEFA Champions League squad.

Ademola Lookman of Nigeria during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Photo by Oty Silas Copyright: xShengolpixsxImago
Still, with Galatasaray reportedly monitoring the situation closely, speculation about his long-term future is unlikely to fade.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories.

Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work.