Atlético Madrid have taken a major step toward signing Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman after reaching an agreement with Atalanta on a €40 million transfer package, overtaking Turkish side Fenerbahçe in the process.
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The development comes after Atlético matched a proposal earlier submitted by Fenerbahçe, but crucial differences in negotiations proved decisive.
While the Turkish club had a verbal agreement in place for a similar fee, talks stalled over payment terms, bank guarantees, and the structure of installments.
Atlético Madrid moved swiftly to capitalise on the delay, agreeing to a deal reportedly structured as €35 million fixed plus €5 million in add-ons, and have now secured a full club-to-club agreement with Atalanta.
In addition to matching the transfer fee, Atlético are understood to have improved their salary offer to Lookman, strengthening their position in the negotiations.
The Super Eagles forward is said to be keen on a move to La Liga, viewing the Spanish top flight as the next step in his career.
As a result, Lookman has reportedly put discussions with Fenerbahçe on hold, pending the final stages of Atlético’s move.
With the January 2026 transfer window nearing its conclusion, Atlético Madrid now appear firmly in control of the race, as they look to add Lookman’s pace, versatility, and attacking quality to Diego Simeone’s squad.
