Atalanta have reportedly shelved all plans to sell Ademola Lookman in the January transfer window following his electric performance on Wednesday night’s 3-0 Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt.
New manager Raffaele Palladino earned his first victory since taking charge, with La Dea producing a whirlwind five-minute spell between the 60th and 65th minute to score all three goals. Lookman was at the heart of the explosion.
The Super Eagles forward opened the scoring on the hour mark, showing sharp movement and composure, before turning provider just two minutes later with a clever assist for Ederson. His two-goal contributions ultimately defined the match and highlighted his renewed confidence under Palladino.
Italian media reports indicate that the performance has dramatically shifted Atalanta’s stance on the 28-year-old, who is contracted until 2027. Earlier this season, the club had been open to discussions regarding a potential sale—partly due to Lookman’s dip in form after a difficult summer marked by a failed transfer switch.
But Palladino’s arrival appears to have reignited the forward’s belief and output, prompting the club to close the door on any January exit. The coach is also said to be pushing for Lookman to receive an improved contract as part of Atalanta’s long-term vision, signalling that he is once again considered a key pillar of the project in Bergamo.
For Lookman, the turnaround represents a timely resurgence at a crucial stage in the campaign—one that may shape both his future at the club and his role for Nigeria ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
