Ademola Lookman has rejected Napoli offer and is keenly waiting on Inter, who may raise their bid with Atalanta sticking to their €50 million demand.

• Lookman rejects Napoli despite higher wages
• Nigerian international holds firm on Inter dream
• Atalanta demand €50m to sanction sale

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  According to the Nigerian forward has rejected Napoli's approach and is holding out for a move to Inter. Despite receiving a more lucrative offer from the Partenopei – a €5m net salary vs Inter’s €4.5m – Lookman is determined to join the Nerazzurri. Inter have already submitted a €40m (£26m/$34m) bid plus bonuses and a 10 per cent resale clause, which was swiftly rejected by Atalanta, who are demanding at least €50m (£43m/$58m).

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Lookman’s agents are set for a fresh round of talks with Atalanta, hoping to push through the move. The Nigerian international is reportedly ready to intervene personally to accelerate his departure from Bergamo, leaning on a promise made last year by the club to allow a transfer. Inter, for their part, are open to slightly raising their offer and have the green light from Oaktree Capital to reach a compromise figure closer to €42-45 million.

  Atalanta remain firm on their valuation and want a permanent sale rather than Inter’s proposed loan with obligation to buy. The Serie A runners-up are also frustrated with the tactics of Lookman's entourage and Inter executives, believing there has been too much back-channel manoeuvring.

• TELL ME MORE

  The 27-year-old Lookman who helped Atalanta win the Europa League last season, with a stunning hat-trick, has stayed silent publicly, but the reports suggest that he has made it clear behind the scenes that he sees Inter as his only destination with keenly eyeing for an improved deal. Napoli, who explored a deal in June, have since reportedly backed off as they now prioritise signing a more traditional winger than Lookman, who profiles more as a second striker.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR LOOKMAN AND INTER?

  Whether Inter can convince Atalanta to accept a slightly lower offer or whether Lookman must take matters into his own hands remains to be seen. The forward is under contract until 2027, so Atalanta still hold the cards. But with the player clearly set on the San Siro, the pressure is now on both clubs to find common ground.