Atlético Madrid have won the race for Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman, agreeing a major €40 million deal with Atalanta to bring the Nigerian international to the Spanish capital this winter.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano confirmed the breakthrough, announcing: “Ademola Lookman to Atlético Madrid, here we go! The agreement is in place on every detail… Atlético, planning now for travel and medical next for the Nigerian.”
The deal, worth a reported €35 million fixed fee plus €5 million in add ons (approximately ₦68 billion), sees the 28 year old commit to a long term contract at the Metropolitano Stadium. His arrival is a significant statement of intent from Diego Simeone’s side as they look to bolster their attack for the La Liga and Champions League run in.
Lookman’s move ends weeks of intense speculation and comes after the forward made his final decision late on Friday. It also halts interest from other suitors, most notably Fenerbahçe, who had been in advanced talks before Atlético’s decisive intervention.
The former Everton and Leicester City man leaves Atalanta after a transformative two and a half year spell in Serie A, where he developed into one of the league’s most electrifying attackers. He etched his name into the club’s history by playing a central role in their remarkable Europa League triumph last season, delivering a series of clutch performances on the continental stage.
For Atlético, securing a proven, versatile forward capable of operating across the front line addresses a key need. Simeone will be hoping Lookman’s pace, direct dribbling, and improved finishing can provide the cutting edge required to close the gap on the league leaders and make a deep European charge.
All that remains now are the formalities. The club are arranging Lookman’s travel and medical, with an official announcement expected once he’s passed his tests and puts pen to paper.
