Yakubu Aiyegbeni Advises CAF Player Of The Year Ademola Lookman After Failed Transfer To Inter Milan

Former Super Eagles striker, Yakubu Aiyegbeni has broken his silence on the transfer saga surrounding Ademola Lookman, advising the forward to focus on his game after his highly anticipated move from Atalanta was blocked.

Lookman was at the center of a controversial summer transfer after his move to Inter Milan—and links to giants like Bayern Munich and Tottenham Hotspur did not materialize. Atalanta reportedly stood firm, rejecting multiple bids for the Nigerian star.

Speaking to Footy-Africa, Aiyegbeni acknowledged that a collapsed move “affects your state of mind.” However, he praised the 27-year-old for his professionalism.

“I must commend Lookman for staying patient and Atalanta for welcoming him back in,” Aiyegbeni said. “The most important thing is that he is back on the pitch, because that is where he can do what he does best, scoring goals and making an impact for his team.”

Aiyegbeni, a former Premier League star with Everton and Middlesbrough, believes the resolution is a positive for both parties.

He advised Lookman to embrace his current situation: “Atalanta need him, and he also needs Atalanta to keep pushing his career forward. I hope from here he can enjoy his football again, stay focused, and deliver the performances we all know he is capable of.”

Lookman, who was decisive in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph two seasons ago, is expected to play a central role in the club’s domestic and European campaigns this season