Drogba presents Lookman petition to Atalanta asking for ‘fair and transparent’ transfer

In a curious twist, Didier Drogba has reportedly arrived in Italy to present Atalanta with a petition asking for African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman to get his desired transfer.

According to African Hub, Drogba is delivering the 50-page petition that was approved by the CAF (Confederation of African Football).

Didier Drogba has landed in Italy to submit a 50-page petition to Atalanta, approved by CAF, advocating for a fair and transparent transfer process for Africa’s top talent Ademola Lookman, Africa’s Best Player of the Year.

This move highlights the importance of accountability… pic.twitter.com/MnZmB40yey

— African Hub (@AfricanHub_) August 14, 2025

It calls for “a fair and transparent transfer process” for Lookman, who is the reigning holder of the African Player of the Year Award.

“This move highlights the importance of accountability and justice in global football transfers, especially when it concerns African stars.”

African football support for Lookman stance

It comes after the Nigerian national team’s social media account posted that they “stand with Ademola Lookman” in his battle to leave Atalanta for Inter.

Lookman is currently believed to be in Portugal, having taken some time in London, walking out on Atalanta training over a week ago.

He is furious with Atalanta for blocking his path to Inter, claiming the €45m including add-ons offer was sufficient to allow for a transfer.

Atalanta responded that they had promised to sell him last summer if the right proposal came in, but only to a club outside of Italy, to avoid reinforcing their direct competitors.