
Manchester City are weighing up a late move for Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman after his much-anticipated transfer to Inter Milan collapsed earlier this summer.
The Nigerian forward, who has been one of Atalanta’s most influential players over the past two seasons, saw Inter submit three separate offers for his signature, all of which were swiftly rejected by the Europa League champions.
The Nerazzurri’s final proposal reported to be around €45 million including add-ons, was not enough to tempt Atalanta into parting ways with the 27-year-old.
City Turn to Lookman After Tottenham Defeat
City’s renewed interest comes in the wake of their disappointing 2–0 home defeat to Tottenham. Despite boasting attacking talent in Erling Haaland, Tijjani Reijnders, and Omar Marmoush, Pep Guardiola’s side failed to find the net, raising concerns about their depth in wide positions.
Sources suggest that City will only step up their pursuit of Lookman if Brazilian winger Savinho leaves before the close of the transfer window. Tottenham are also monitoring the situation closely, particularly after delays in their own negotiations for Savinho.
Lookman’s Strained Relationship With Atalanta
For Lookman, the breakdown of the Inter deal has left his future in Italy uncertain. Tensions with Atalanta supporters have escalated since last season, with some fans openly criticising his decision to push for an exit.
Matters grew worse after a high-profile penalty miss in the Champions League prompted former coach Gian Piero Gasperini to describe him as “one of the worst penalty-takers” he had seen.
The fallout has been severe. Reports from Italy claim a section of Atalanta fans would rather see the club relegated than watch Lookman play in their colours again.
He has already missed the club’s opening Serie A fixture against Pisa and is expected to be sidelined again for their next outing against Parma.
Premier League and La Liga Interest
Before Inter entered the race, Lookman had attracted offers from several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, and West Ham, though he turned them down early in the summer.
Atletico Madrid also weighed up a move, but Diego Simeone instead prioritised Juventus’ Nicolás González.
Now, with just days left in the window, City could be his ticket back to England—where he has already played for Everton, Fulham, and Leicester.
What Next for the Nigerian Star?
Lookman, crowned CAF Player of the Year after his heroics in the Africa Cup of Nations, remains one of the hottest names in the market. Whether City make their move depends on the domino effect of Savinho’s future, but one thing is clear: his chapter at Atalanta is rapidly closing.
For Guardiola, who needs fresh options to keep his attack unpredictable, Lookman might be the kind of signing that offers both proven quality and Premier League experience. For Lookman, it could be the career reset he has been waiting for.

