Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi has opened the door for Ademola Lookman’s return to first-team action, insisting the club are waiting ‘with open arms’ for the Nigerian winger to demonstrate his full commitment following his failed summer transfer saga.

The 27-year-old has been frozen out of Atalanta’s squad this season after attempting to force a move to Serie A rivals Inter Milan, handing in a transfer request and abstaining from training for two weeks during the summer window.

Lookman’s protest came after Inter’s bid fell short of Atalanta’s €50m asking price, leaving the Nigeria international sidelined from manager Ivan Juric’s plans despite his impressive record at the club.

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Percassi stressed that Lookman must show complete dedication before being reintegrated into the squad.

“You cannot go back and change the past, so we will focus on the present and future,” Percassi said.

“We all know how good Ademola is, but to play for Atalanta, you must be 100 per cent focused. When he feels ready to do that, we are waiting for him with open arms.”

The impact of Lookman’s absence has been evident in Atalanta’s stuttering start to the campaign, with the 2024 Europa League champions managing just one victory in their opening four fixtures.

Their struggles culminated in a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday, a result that highlighted how vital Lookman’s attacking threat has been to La Dea.

Coach Juric hinted at the Nigerian’s importance when discussing his team’s injury problems after the PSG defeat.

“We are missing four very big players,” Juric said. “I think when we get everyone back, Atalanta can be competitive again.”

The Nigerian forward, who netted 20 goals in 41 appearances last season, represents a significant boost in attack, and his return could provide the spark Juric needs to stabilise the club’s campaign.

Captain Marten De Roon has also expressed the team’s willingness to welcome Lookman back once the standoff ends.

“He didn’t bother us. I don’t want to waste too much time. We’re focusing on the team and who’s there. We’re always here, and I think there will always be an opening for Lookman,” De Roon said.

In three seasons at Atalanta, Lookman has scored 52 goals and provided 25 assists in 112 appearances, underlining his importance to the club’s attacking output.