Onazi Questions Atalanta’s Stance on Lookman Transfer

Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has criticised Atalanta over their refusal to sell Ademola Lookman, urging Italian clubs to improve how they manage players. Lookman, one of Atalanta’s standout performers and a key figure for Nigeria, was reportedly targeted by Inter Milan during the summer window, but the Europa League champions rejected all approaches from a domestic rival.

Speaking on the Abu Azeez podcast, Onazi compared the situation to Victor Osimhen’s troubled exit from Napoli and his own transfer issues after Nigeria’s 2013 AFCON triumph. “Ademola is very quiet, and sometimes that can be taken advantage of… I don't know why they won't let him leave,” he said.

Onazi stressed that Atalanta would still profit, noting, “It's not like he's leaving on a free deal… football is a business.” He warned that blocking big offers can backfire if a player’s form drops or injury strikes during crucial transfer periods.