Atlético Madrid are closing in on the signing of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman after reaching a verbal agreement worth €40 million with Atalanta. The deal has moved quickly, with Lookman informing all parties that Atlético is now his priority despite a stronger salary offer from Fenerbahçe.
SoftFootball recently reported that Atlético have surged ahead in the race by offering more reliable financial terms, putting them on the brink of completing one of the window’s standout moves
The agreement, shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account, is structured around €35 million guaranteed with a further €5 million tied to performance bonuses. While Fenerbahçe were initially confident after tabling a lucrative personal contract, delays around payment guarantees allowed Atlético to step in decisively.
Fabrizio Romano posted:
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.
Verbal agreement on €40m deal. Formal steps expected today then… here we go.
Lookman’s camp has now made it clear that sporting ambition outweighs salary, a decision shaped by the appeal of La Liga and Diego Simeone’s project. His recent impact for Nigeria, highlighted by his decisive performances at AFCON, has only increased his profile.
Although Lookman had previously agreed to personal terms with Fenerbahçe, including a reported €9 million-per-year package, Atlético’s proposal won out through a combination of competitive football and Simeone’s direct involvement.
The Argentine coach personally outlined how Lookman would fit into his system, convincing the player even though the Spanish side’s salary offer is significantly lower. Atalanta have also cooperated by leaving Lookman out of their matchday squad as talks reached an advanced stage.
Atlético’s urgency is linked to changes in their attacking unit this winter. Giacomo Raspadori’s exit to Atalanta and concerns over Antoine Griezmann’s fitness have left Simeone short of options.
Recent results, including a frustrating draw, underlined the need for a direct and versatile attacker. Lookman’s ability to operate on either flank or through the middle makes him an ideal fit.
Fresh from an impressive international run where he was named man of the match against Tunisia, Lookman arrives with confidence and momentum. With formal steps expected to be completed today, Atlético Madrid are now preparing for the final ‘here we go’ as the transfer window clock ticks down.
