Jonathan Rowe sets sights on England call-up after €40m Atalanta move

Jonathan Rowe has made earning a place in the England squad one of his major ambitions after completing a €40million move from Bologna to Atalanta.

The winger believes playing regularly in Serie A and European competition can provide the platform he needs to attract the attention of the England selectors.

Rowe also revealed that former Atalanta star Ademola Lookman spoke positively about the club before his transfer, while the opportunity to work under Maurizio Sarri helped convince him that Bergamo was the right destination.

Rowe made no attempt to hide his international aspirations during his introductory press conference.

Asked whether an England call-up was among his objectives, he replied: "100%. It's been a dream of mine since I was a little boy."

The winger believes career decisions will be crucial to achieving that goal, with Atalanta's recent record in European competition making the move particularly attractive.

"You have to take the right steps in your career to reach these goals," Rowe explained.

His immediate task will be establishing himself in Sarri's side and producing the consistent performances required to force his way into the international conversation.

Atalanta targeted Rowe after Ademola Lookman's departure to Atletico Madrid, but the new signing does not see himself simply replacing the Nigerian.

The pair spoke while on holiday during the summer, before Rowe's transfer had started taking shape.

"He said nothing but good things about the club, which gave me even more motivation," Rowe revealed.

However, the 22-year-old was quick to dismiss comparisons between their playing styles.

"He has his own qualities, I have my own qualities," he said. "We're different players, we're different people."

Rowe instead wants to establish his own identity and make an individual contribution to Atalanta's attack.

Working with Maurizio Sarri was another important factor behind Rowe's decision to leave Bologna.

The England hopeful praised the Italian coach's experience, ideas and reputation and believes he can develop significantly under his guidance.

"Sarri is a great coach," Rowe said. "He has a lot of experience and respect in the game, he's achieved a lot."

Rather than dwelling on the circumstances surrounding his Bologna departure, Rowe is now concentrating on adapting to Sarri's system and establishing himself at his new club.

If he succeeds, an opportunity with England could become the next major step in his career.

Rowe must now establish himself in Sarri's Atalanta side and translate his potential into consistent performances.

Strong displays in Serie A and particularly in European competition would increase his visibility significantly, potentially moving him closer to the England opportunity he has targeted throughout his career.