Raffaele Palladino Leans on Ademola Lookman as Atalanta Face Fierce Transfer Turmoil

Raffaele Palladino counts on Ademola Lookman as Atalanta navigate a tense transfer battle that unsettles the club.

The new head coach steps into a dressing room shaken by Lookman’s push for a move and the failed attempts to secure his exit during the summer window.

Lookman still wants to leave and keeps interest alive from Fenerbahçe and other European clubs ahead of the January market.

His unresolved situation fuels tension inside the squad and contributes to Atalanta’s poor league form.

The club now sits seven matches without a win.

Inter Milan offered €45 million during the summer, but Atalanta insisted on €50 million.

The breakdown of talks frustrated Lookman and disrupted his rhythm.

Palladino moves quickly to reset the atmosphere.

He contacted the Nigerian forward after his return from international duty and underlined the need for focus.

He wants commitment during training and demands competitive energy from every player.

“Lookman is crucial,” he said.

“I called him and he presented himself very well. I will decide his role based on his work in training.”

Lookman still feels irritated by the heated exchange with former coach Ivan Jurić during the Champions League match against Marseille on 5 November.

The friction did not fade after Jurić’s dismissal.

Lookman’s contract runs until 2027, but he remains open to leaving in January.

Atalanta no longer close the door to a sale, especially with his AFCON duty approaching.

Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe prepare firm bids and aim to outpay each other.

Reports suggest Galatasaray plan a €9 million-per-year contract.

Atletico Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur still monitor the situation after showing interest in the summer.

Atalanta may drop their €50 million valuation if Lookman fails to lift his form soon.

The next few weeks will shape both his future and the club’s season.