Inter Milan are exploring the possibility of including midfielder Kristjan Asllani in a player-plus-cash offer to secure the signing of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman from Atalanta.
The Serie A champions have already agreed personal terms with Lookman, who is reportedly eager to make the move to the San Siro. However, Inter’s €45 million bid still falls short of Atalanta’s €60 million asking price for clubs within Italy, as reported by Calciomercato.
To bridge the gap, Inter are considering adding Asllani to sweeten the deal. The 22-year-old Albanian international has been a rotational option in midfield and could serve as a valuable asset to Atalanta in their ongoing squad rebuild.
Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio confirmed that Inter are “serious about Lookman” and already have an “agreement with the player” in place as negotiations intensify.
Lookman, 27, enjoyed a remarkable 2023/24 season, scoring 17 goals and playing a key role in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph. His hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen drew widespread acclaim. He continued that form into the 2024/25 campaign, netting 20 goals across all competitions.
The Nigerian international’s performances have attracted interest from multiple clubs, including Atletico Madrid—who view him as a potential reinforcement should their attacking line suffer further departures—and Arsenal, who are also reportedly monitoring his situation.
Despite the growing interest, Lookman is said to favour a move to Inter. New Inter manager Christian Chivu views the winger as central to his tactical plans for the upcoming season. Chivu values Lookman’s versatility, as the former Leicester City and RB Leipzig player can operate on both wings or behind the striker.
Atalanta, undergoing a summer of transition, have already seen several major changes. Former head coach Gian Piero Gasperini departed in June, while key players Mateo Retegui and Matteo Ruggeri have joined Al-Qadsiah and Atletico Madrid, respectively.
Although Atalanta’s €60 million valuation remains firm, Inter are not expected to make a significantly higher cash offer. Club executives are hoping that a prior understanding allowing Lookman to leave this summer will be honoured by Atalanta’s management.
Inter, still on break following their FIFA Club World Cup campaign, aim to conclude the deal swiftly to give Chivu the reinforcements he needs ahead of the new season
