Inter Milan are reportedly exploring a player-plus-cash deal involving midfielder Kristjan Asllani in a renewed bid to sign Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman from Atalanta.
The Nerazzurri have already reached personal terms with Lookman, who is keen on a move to the San Siro. However, their latest €40–€45 million offer falls short of Atalanta’s €60 million valuation for domestic rivals, according to Calciomercato.
To bridge the gap, Inter are now weighing the inclusion of Albanian international Asllani in the deal, hoping to convince Atalanta to accept the proposal and finalize the transfer.
Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio previously reported that Inter are “serious about Lookman” and have already secured an “agreement with the player,” as the club intensifies efforts to land the Super Eagles star.
Lookman, 27, had a stellar 2023/24 season, scoring 17 goals and playing a crucial role in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League title win. His hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen elevated his profile across Europe. He followed up with another prolific campaign in 2024/25, netting 20 goals across all competitions.
The Nigerian’s performances have attracted attention from several top European clubs, including Atletico Madrid who are preparing for potential changes in attack and Arsenal who have also expressed interest.
Despite the competition, Lookman is reportedly eager to join Inter and has already given his approval for the transfer. New Inter head coach Christian Chivu views the winger as a vital part of his plans to reshape the club’s attacking lineup.
Chivu is said to be impressed by Lookman’s versatility, with the former RB Leipzig and Leicester City player capable of operating on either wing or as a second striker. The coach envisions him forming a dynamic front line alongside Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram.
Atalanta, meanwhile, have undergone significant changes in recent months. Former manager Gian Piero Gasperini departed in June, while key players such as Serie A top scorer Mateo Retegui and promising left-back Matteo Ruggeri have exited the club joining Al-Qadsiah and Atletico Madrid, respectively.
With Inter’s squad currently on post-Club World Cup break, the club is keen to finalize the Lookman deal swiftly to strengthen Chivu’s options ahead of the new season.
Though Atalanta remain firm on their €60 million valuation, Inter’s position is clear, they are not willing to raise the cash component significantly beyond their current offer and are relying on the player swap to push the deal through. Lookman remains under contract with Atalanta until 2027, but Inter are optimistic that a previous understanding with the club allowing the player to leave this summer will be honored as talks continue.
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