Atlético Madrid have stepped up their pursuit of Ademola Lookman as the race for the Nigerian star intensifies in the closing stages of the winter transfer window.
The former African Player of the Year has been at the centre of a fierce transfer battle, with both Atlético Madrid and Fenerbahçe pushing hard to secure his signature as Atalanta remain firm on their valuation and deal structure.
According to Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Atlético have now moved decisively ahead of the Turkish giants:
Atlético Madrid have matched Fenerbahçe proposal for Ademola Lookman: €40m package agreed with Atalanta. Fenerbahçe have still not agreed on payment terms and bank guarantees, Atléti are ready. Salary proposal to Lookman from Atléti has also been improved.
Softfootball earlier reported that Fenerbahçe had been locked in discussions with Atalanta over payment terms and the overall structure of the deal, with negotiations dragging on as Atlético Madrid stayed on standby, ready to act if talks stalled — a situation that now appears to have played into the Spanish side’s hands.
Lookman is expected to push for a move away from Atalanta, with sources indicating that his relationship with the Italian club has broken down beyond repair. The Nigerian forward comes into the transfer window in strong form and high demand after an impressive AFCON campaign, where he shone for the Super Eagles and was named in the Team of the Tournament alongside three other Nigerian players.
As the deadline approaches, Atlético Madrid are now well-positioned to finalise the deal, with improved personal terms on the table and Atalanta’s €40m valuation met, leaving Fenerbahçe needing a late breakthrough to revive their hopes.
