Transfers
Atalanta, Ademola Lookman In Contract Showdown Talk; Super Eagles Star May Ignore Extention
Atalanta BC, the 2023-24 Europa League champion, is preparing to extend a new contract offer to the forward representing the Super Eagles following the upcoming international break for the national team, as reported by Soccernet.ng.
The 27-year-old attacker has been delivering impressive performance for the Bergamo-based club since his arrival in the 2022 Summer transfer window, and he has so far scored 40 goals in total for the club.
In 2024, Lookman single handedly scored a hat-trick for Atalanta against Bayer Leverkusen which won the Europa League for Gian Gasperini’s men.
Following this, Atalanta has come to a conclusion to extend Lookman’s stay beyond 2026, following interests from top European clubs who are looking to bolster their squad with his skills.
Soccernet.ng earlier reported that the Italian side are looking to double his salary but there has not been any talks on the table with the former Everton forward’s signature.
Reports from Nigerian journalist Buchi Laba has reported that the Serie A club are looking to table an offer after the national duty for the Super Eagles. Meanwhile, this would include a release clause and an improve terms.
The calm Lookman is not in a rush to sign a new deal nor make an exit. But the club is trying to protest their interest as clubs will be coming for his signature soon.
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World Cup 20266 hours ago**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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