By Olukayode Olumuyiwa.
In a dramatic turn during the winter transfer window, Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman is on the brink of completing a high-profile move to Atlético Madrid from Italian side Atalanta. The transfer, valued at €40 million, marks a significant acquisition for the Spanish club as they bolster their attacking options under manager Diego Simeone.
According to reliable transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the deal has reached the “here we go” stage, signaling that all key agreements are in place. The package includes a fixed fee of €35 million, with an additional €5 million in performance-based add-ons payable to Atalanta. Lookman, who made his decision late last night, has agreed to a long-term contract with Atlético, prioritizing the La Liga side despite a competitive salary offer from Turkish club Fenerbahçe.
The 28-year-old winger has been a standout performer for Atalanta since joining in 2022, contributing goals and assists in Serie A and European competitions. His form has attracted interest from multiple clubs, but Atlético Madrid emerged as the frontrunners after matching Fenerbahçe’s €40 million proposal and improving their own salary terms to the player. Sources indicate that while Fenerbahçe had verbally agreed on the fee with Atalanta, issues with payment terms and bank guarantees stalled their negotiations, allowing Atlético to swoop in.
“Atlético Madrid are closing in on Ademola Lookman deal tonight! The player has informed all parties about his desire to prioritize Atlético proposal despite Fenerbahçe improved salary bid,” Romano reported earlier, highlighting the player’s preference for the Spanish capital. This move comes after Atlético monitored Lookman closely, with direct contacts between the player and Simeone discussing terms and the forward’s role in the team.
With the agreement finalized, Atlético are now organizing Lookman’s travel to Madrid for medical examinations and to complete the formalities. The transfer is expected to be officially announced soon, providing a boost to Atlético’s squad as they compete in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and European fixtures.
Lookman’s arrival could fill a key gap in Atlético’s forward line, bringing pace, creativity, and goal-scoring threat. The Nigerian international, who recently represented his country at the Africa Cup of Nations, will aim to make an immediate impact in Spain.
This deal underscores Atlético Madrid’s proactive approach in the transfer market, hijacking what seemed like a done deal for Fenerbahçe and securing a talented attacker for €40 million. As the winter window draws to a close, fans will be eager to see Lookman in red and white stripes.
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