Inter Milan Signs Nigerian Forward, Dealing Blow to Atletico Madrid
Atletico Madrid Secures Johnny Cardoso
Atletico Madrid has made significant strides in their summer transfer activities by officially signing Johnny Cardoso on a five-year contract. However, they are encountering challenges in acquiring another key target.
Atletico Madrid Pursuit of Ademola Lookman
Ademola Lookman is on the market this summer following a fallout with Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini. Barcelona has also shown interest in Lookman, but financial constraints may hinder their ability to secure the deal. Atalanta has set a €50m price tag for the Nigerian international, a figure that Atletico Madrid aims to negotiate down before proceeding with the transfer. Despite maintaining good relations with Atalanta, Atletico is hesitant to meet the hefty price tag, as confirmed by Fabrizio Romano.
🚨🔴⚪️ Atlético Madrid remain keen on signing Ademola Lookman in case of more exits.
Contacts took place in recent days again even after Thiago Almada deal, waiting for more clarity on final pricing. pic.twitter.com/P5h0dvLNNY
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 16, 2025
Atletico Madrid must offload additional players, with Samuel Lino being a primary candidate. The Brazilian’s reduced role last season has prompted Atletico to market him to Premier League clubs in anticipation of a lucrative deal.
🚨🇧🇷 JUST IN: Atlético Madrid is working on a possible departure for Samuel Lino.
His exit could help facilitate the arrival of another player to the squad.
There have been contacts with some clubs from the Premier League and Portugal.
[🎖️: @MatteMoretto] pic.twitter.com/AVhkg14uLg
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) July 16, 2025
Inter’s Interest in Lookman
Atletico Madrid faces fierce competition in their pursuit of Lookman, with Inter expressing strong interest in securing the forward. According to Gianluca di Marzio, Inter has made Lookman their top priority for bolstering their forward line. Discussions with Lookman’s representatives have reportedly concluded, with Inter planning to submit a €40m offer imminently.
Barcelona are monitoring Bryan Zaragoza’s situation at Bayern Munich. He would be a complementary signing. Zaragoza is willing to be patient if needed. Via @sport
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) July 14, 2025
Challenges in Negotiating Lookman’s Price
If Atalanta remains firm on their asking price for Lookman, Atletico Madrid may find it financially burdensome to proceed with the transfer. Alternatively, should Atalanta reconsider their valuation, Inter appears poised to capitalize on the opportunity swiftly, while Atletico awaits developments with Samuel Lino. To secure the services of the 2024 African Player of the Year, Atletico may need to expedite the negotiation process or persuade Lookman of the appeal of a move to the Metropolitano.
