Ademola Lookman is nearing Atalanta’s first-team call-up once more, as reports suggest the Nigeria international may rejoin the squad for Sunday’s Serie A clash against Lecce.
However, this will only be possible if he successfully comes through the club’s last training session on Saturday.
Lookman’s strained relationship with Atalanta
Lookman, 27, endured a turbulent summer marked by transfer drama and strained relations with the Bergamo-based side.
After Inter Milan tabled a €45 million offer that was rejected, Lookman submitted a formal transfer request.
He accused Atalanta of “breaking promises” and failing to treat him “on a professional and human level,” before leaving Italy to train alone in the UK.
He eventually returned to Bergamo on August 19, just days before the new campaign kicked off and after missing all of Atalanta’s pre-season fixtures.
With no deal materialising, Lookman remained in Ivan Juric’s squad, though tensions between player and club persist.
Fresh opportunity against Lecce
Despite the off-field tension, Sky Sport Italia reports that Lookman could be in line for a recall if he proves his fitness in Saturday’s session.
The winger has been active on the international stage, starting both of Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualifiers—a 1-0 victory over Rwanda and a 1-1 draw with South Africa.
Atalanta, who are keen to bolster their attacking options, are said to “expect” Lookman to feature in the final training workout.
If cleared, he would be named in the matchday squad for the Lecce encounter on Sunday.