By Ghazali Ibrahim
Super Eagles Star Ademola Lookman has completed a move to Atlético Madrid from Italian side Atalanta in a deal worth €40 million, bringing an end to months of speculation over his future.
According to multiple reports confirmed on Sunday, the Spanish club agreed to pay €35 million upfront with a further €5 million in performance-related add-ons for the 28-year-old forward.
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano said all key terms between the clubs and the player have been settled, with Atlético now arranging travel and medical tests ahead of an official announcement.
Lookman, who has been pushing for a move away from Atalanta following a protracted transfer saga last summer, gave the green light to Atlético after direct talks with head coach Diego Simeone. The La Liga side moved decisively in the closing days of the winter window, beating off competition from Turkish club Fenerbahçe, whose proposed deal reportedly collapsed over financial guarantees.
The former Everton and Leicester City winger enjoyed a standout 2024/25 season with Atalanta, scoring 20 goals and providing seven assists in all competitions, and was a key figure in Nigeria’s recent Africa Cup of Nations campaign. Atlético see him as a versatile attacking option capable of operating across the frontline, especially amid injury concerns to key players this season.
Lookman’s arrival is expected to bolster Diego Simeone’s squad as Atlético continue their push in La Liga and Europe, while Atalanta cash in on one of their most valuable assets during the January transfer window.
