Ademola Lookman Set for Atalanta Return After Transfer Standoff

Nigeria international Ademola Lookman is poised to make his first appearance of the season for Atalanta following a turbulent transfer saga that saw him miss the opening weeks.

The 27-year-old winger had trained separately from the main squad after pushing for a move to Serie A rivals Inter Milan, even going AWOL at one point. However, according to transfer expert Nicolo Schira, Lookman has now rejoined full training after returning from international duty with Nigeria, where he featured in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.

With La Dea winless after two games this season, Lookman is expected to be included in the squad for Sunday’s Serie A clash with Lecce, a much-needed boost for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side.

Opinion: A Fresh Start or Lingering Tensions?

Lookman’s return comes at a crucial time for Atalanta. The club has struggled for form in the early part of the season, and the Nigerian forward’s creativity, pace, and eye for goal could be the spark they need to reignite their campaign.

However, the question remains—how quickly can he win back the trust of his manager, teammates, and fans? Transfer standoffs often leave scars, especially when a player goes AWOL, but football has a funny way of forgiving and forgetting once goals start flying in.

For Lookman, this could be a turning point. If he channels his frustration into performances, he can remind everyone why he was one of Atalanta’s most dangerous players last season. But if his mind is still set on a move, the tension could linger and affect both his game and the squad’s balance.

Atalanta’s season may well hinge on how Lookman responds—whether he emerges as a committed leader on the pitch or remains a player with one eye elsewhere. For now, the Lecce game could mark the beginning of his redemption arc.