Inter Milan have reportedly withdrawn from the race to sign Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, according to reports in Italian media.
SportMediaset, via FCInterNews, reports that the Nerazzurri abandoned their pursuit of the Nigerian international after two bids worth €40m and later €45m, including add-ons, were rejected by Atalanta.
Read Also: Tottenham, Aston Villa to battle Inter for Ademola Lookman
“The Ademola Lookman deal is currently on hold. Inter and Atalanta have reached an agreement for Zalewski’s transfer to Bergamo, but have not discussed the Nigerian striker, nor do they intend to do so in the coming days,” FCInterNews quoted.
Read Also: Drogba files petition against Atalanta over Ademola Lookman’s transfer saga
Inter’s management have now shifted their focus to strengthening other areas of the squad. The €45m initially allocated for Lookman is expected to be reinvested in a defender and a defensive midfielder.
Udinese’s Oumar Solet has emerged as their top defensive target, while the club are also exploring midfield options.
Although Lookman had been on Inter’s radar all summer, negotiations with Atalanta stalled, with the Bergamo club unwilling to lower their €55m valuation. Inter directors Beppe Marotta and Piero Ausilio are now unwilling to reopen talks.
While attacking reinforcements later in the window remain a possibility, Inter’s immediate priority is to add depth in defence and midfield as Simone Inzaghi prepares for another Serie A title challenge.
