Atlético Madrid have reached an agreement with Atalanta over the transfer of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman.
The deal is valued at €35 million as a fixed fee, with an additional €5 million in add-ons.
Personal terms have also been agreed with the player on a long-term contract, pending a medical and the formal signing of documents.
Fenerbahçe were previously close to securing Lookman’s signature after agreeing to the same €35 million valuation.
However, the Turkish club were unable to meet Atalanta’s requirement of €25 million paid upfront, which ultimately opened the door for Atlético Madrid to move ahead in negotiations.
Discussions between Lookman and Atlético took time, but the move gathered momentum after direct talks with head coach Diego Simeone and a strong push from the club’s board.
Simeone is understood to have outlined a clear role for the winger, detailing how he would fit into Atlético’s sporting project, which proved decisive in convincing the player.
Atlético Madrid have since confirmed the agreement in an official statement posted on X:
“Agreement with Atalanta over the transfer of Ademola Lookman. The Nigerian forward is already in Madrid. The agreement is subject to passing his medical and formalizing his contract.”
Lookman will become the first Nigerian player in Atlético Madrid’s history in Men’s football.
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Meanwhile, the 28 year-old offered Rojiblancos fans a glimpse of what they’re to expect.
Speaking after his arrival at the club’s facilities for his medicals, the 2024 Europa League winner expressed his desire to compete.
‘I’m very happy to be here, very very happy,’ Lookman said. ‘I am looking forward to the challenge.’
The new signing is expected to join the first team immediately and could be available for Thursday’s Copa del Rey match against Real Betis.
