Atalanta Sporting Director, Tony D’Amico, has affirmed the club’s commitment to keeping their star forward, Ademola Lookman, and other key players amid growing transfer interest.
Lookman has been in scintillating form throughout 2024, excelling for both club and country. His efforts earned him the prestigious 2024 African Player of the Year award, and he was ranked 14th in the Ballon d’Or standings.
READ MORE:Dele-Bashiru credits Lazio Coach for enhancing his game
The former Everton attacker has attracted significant interest from several top clubs, including English Premier League giants Manchester United, Liverpool, and Arsenal.
Lookman Shines in Atalanta’s Draw with Lazio
Lookman continued to demonstrate his class in Atalanta’s recent 1-1 away draw against Lazio. The Nigerian forward provided the assist for Charles De Ketelaere’s equalizer after Fisayo Ayodele-Bashiru had given Lazio the lead.
Ademola Lookman could have scored, but he chose to square it for Marco Brescinini.
Lazio 1-1 AtalantaDele Bashiru 1 goal
A. Lookman 1 assistpic.twitter.com/AZivVSgGX6— 𝐄𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐮𝐬 (@HeDontMakeNoise) December 28, 2024
Despite the growing transfer rumors, Atalanta remain focused on their campaign.
D’Amico Reflects on Atalanta’s Stellar Year
Speaking after the Lazio game, D’Amico praised the team’s achievements in 2024, a year that saw Atalanta win the UEFA Europa League and compete in two major finals.
“There is no extra pressure; we continue as always to take it one game at a time and focus only on ourselves,” D’Amico told Sky Sports Italia.
“This 2024 has been unforgettable, with two Finals and one trophy. Lazio are a quality opponent, and they’ve invested well this season. We approach every match with the same mindset—trying to achieve the best we can.”
January Transfer Window Plans
When asked about the possibility of losing top players like Lookman and midfielder Ederson during the January transfer window, D’Amico reassured fans of Atalanta’s determination to retain their squad’s core.
“Certainly, the January transfer window is a challenging period for all clubs. If opportunities arise, we will explore them, but our priority remains maintaining the full squad we currently have at our disposal,” he said.
Atalanta’s Title Challenge Intensifies
Atalanta celebrated Christmas as Serie A leaders, though Inter Milan has since drawn level on points following their 3-0 victory over Cagliari, with a game in hand.
As the Serie A title race heats up, Atalanta’s resolve to keep their stars, including the highly coveted Lookman, will be critical to their ambitions in the second half of the season.