2-time Champions League winning coach tips Lookman to shine at Inter

Ademola Lookman may be on the move from Atalanta to Inter Milan, and he's already receiving backing from one of football’s great tactical minds.

Two-time Champions League winner Arrigo Sacchi believes the Nigerian winger could thrive with the Nerazzurri, if he adapts quickly to their system.

In a wide-ranging interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Sacchi described Lookman as “a phenomenal sprinter,” adding, “that is the quality that [Inter] need to make the most of.”

Sacchi emphasised that the move would only succeed if Lookman fully integrates with the squad and settles into the club’s dynamic.

Inter are in active negotiations with Atalanta for the 26-year-old forward, who scored 20 goals and recorded seven assists in all competitions last season.

Atalanta are holding out for €50 million, while Inter are hoping to bring down the asking price in ongoing talks.

When asked if Lookman and new signing Ange-Yoan Bonny represent an upgrade over Marko Arnautovic and Mehdi Taremi, Sacchi was emphatic: “It is definitely a step forward, no doubt.”

He also didn’t rule out the idea of a front three featuring Lookman, Lautaro Martinez, and Marcus Thuram, saying, “Anything is possible, as long as everyone sacrifices themselves for the good of the team.”

Drawing from his experience at Milan, Sacchi noted that a successful trio would need full commitment to pressing and defensive duties: “The key is that Chivu outlines a clear strategy and that his players stick to it without getting discouraged at the first setback.”