Former Watford manager Giuseppe Sannino has advised Atalanta to reconcile with Ademola Lookman and reintegrate him into the squad following the Super Eagles star’s transfer standoff, writes Nigeriasoccernet.com.
Lookman, 27, has been at the center of a prolonged saga after Inter Milan’s €45 million bid was rejected earlier this summer. Frustrated by the decision, he reportedly accused Atalanta of “breaking promises,” submitted a transfer request, and even took an unauthorized two-week absence from training.
Speaking to Tutto Atalanta, Sannino stressed that the Bergamo club cannot afford to lose Lookman’s quality at such a crucial stage.
“I would always want Lookman. He’s been a pillar of the team. As a coach and as a club, I’d do anything to keep him,” Sannino said. “It’s normal for a young player to aspire to something bigger, but we must do everything possible to convince him, because he’s a great player.”
The Nigerian forward was instrumental in Atalanta’s success last season, including his standout performance in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, and remains a key asset despite ongoing tensions.