Atalanta welcomed Ademola Lookman back after Nigeria duty, ending speculation about his future.
The forward trained under new coach Ivan Juric following a summer transfer saga with Inter Milan.
Atalanta have welcomed Ademola Lookman back into the squad following his return from international duty with Nigeria, ending weeks of uncertainty over his future.
Lookman trained with the team on Friday under new coach Ivan Juric, marking his first session back with the group since the summer transfer saga.
The 27-year-old forward, who scored 20 goals in all competitions last season, had been training separately in August after attempting to force a move to Inter Milan. Inter reportedly submitted a €45m (£38m/$53m) bid, but Atalanta rejected the offer and refused to sell one of their key attacking figures.
Frustrated, Lookman deleted Atalanta-related photos from his social media accounts, sparking speculation over a complete breakdown in relations with the club.
Lookman featured for Nigeria during the September international break, playing 75 minutes against Rwanda and a full 90 minutes against South Africa in World Cup qualifying. His reintegration at Atalanta comes after those matches, with the club deciding against further punishment.
While he is unlikely to feature in Sunday’s Serie A clash with Lecce, reports suggest he could be included in the squad for Atalanta’s Champions League opener against Paris Saint-Germain next Wednesday.
Despite the reconciliation, questions persist about Lookman’s long-term future. His contract with Atalanta runs until June 2027, but Juventus are reportedly lining him up as their number one target to replace Dusan Vlahovic in 2026.
The situation mirrors that of 2024, when Lookman was also sidelined after transfer speculation, only to return and play a decisive role in Atalanta’s campaign.
La Dea stood firm throughout the summer, signaling Lookman’s importance to their ambitions in Serie A and Europe. For Juric, his return adds depth to an attack that will be tested heavily across domestic and European competitions.
Lookman’s comeback may calm tensions for now, but with Inter and Juventus monitoring the situation, his long-term commitment to Atalanta remains in doubt.
