Atalanta’s summer transfer strategy is unfolding like a carefully plotted chess move: if they can sell Ademola Lookman for a whopping €50 million, they’ll immediately allocate €15 million to bid for Federico Chiesa Jr. from Juventus – a "sell-to-buy" chain that’s shaking up Serie A’s transfer market.
The plan starts with Lookman’s exit. The Nigerian forward has been explicitly axed from Atalanta’s next-season plans, despite notching 12 goals and 6 assists last term. Inter Milan are desperate to sign him, offering €40 million and even striking a personal agreement with the player to pressure Atalanta. But the Bergamo club is standing firm: "Not a cent less than €50 million." They know Lookman’s pace and wing threat are rare commodities, and they’re in no rush to lower their demands.
With one exit lined up, Atalanta are already eyeing a replacement – and Chiesa Jr. tops their list. The Italian international has endured a frustrating spell at Juventus, reduced to a substitute role last season with just 1,800 minutes, 3 goals, and 2 assists, a far cry from his once-electrifying form. Chiesa is eager for a fresh start, and Atalanta’s fast-transition style could reignite his career, making the move a perfect fit.
Atalanta’s blueprint is clear: €50 million from Lookman’s sale will fund a €15 million bid for Chiesa. While the figure seems modest, it’s shrewdly calculated: Juventus have valued Chiesa at around €20 million amid his dip in form, so €15 million strikes a balance between respect and pragmatism. Crucially, manager Gian Piero Gasperini’s reputation for reviving struggling stars could sway Chiesa to join.
The fate of the deal hinges on Lookman. Will Inter cough up €50 million, or will another club (like rumored suitors Newcastle) pounce? If the sale goes through, Chiesa’s move to Atalanta could quickly gain momentum. For the "Orobici," this isn’t just a squad refresh – it’s a calculated gamble: turning one player’s exit fee into another’s career revival. And in the high-stakes world of transfers, it’s a bet worth taking.
