Atalanta Director Tony D’Amico has ruled out the exit of reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman and other top players at the club in the January transfer window.
The Nigerian forward as well other key players including the likes of Brazilian Midfielder Ederson, Belgian playmaker Charles De Ketelaere, and Italian striker Mateo Retegui, have all been subject of transfer speculations.
With the January transfer window opening later this week, top European clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool, Barcelona, and Paris Saint Germain have all renewed their interest but Tony D’Amico has expressed that the club is willing to keep their players and do not need to sell for any financial obligations.
“The January transfer window is a difficult one for all clubs,” he stated. “If there are any opportunities, we will go for them, but obviously maintaining the full squad that we currently have at our disposal is our priority.”
Reflecting on a successful year, D’Amico added, “This 2024 has been unforgettable, with two finals and one trophy. We always approach each game with the same determination, trying to achieve the best we can.”
Lookman was recently crowned as the best footballer in Africa after a stellar individual campaign, while he also finished 14th in the 2024 Ballon D’or rankings.
This season, he has 12 goals and six assists in all competitions including providing the assist for Atalanta’s late equalizer in their 1-1 draw against Lazio who had earlier taken the lead through another Nigerian international, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
