After reaching a verbal agreement with Atalanta worth 40 million euros, Atletico Madrid is about to sign Ademola Lookman (Fabrizio Romano) in the winter transfer window.
Fenerbahce appeared to be the frontrunners for the Nigerian striker, but Atletico Madrid have leapfrogged them by matching their offer.
advertise
The Spanish giants also increased their salary offer for Lookman. Head coach Diego Simeone was involved in the negotiations, convincing the Super Eagles star to accept Atletico’s offer.
Lookman has been trying to leave Radja since his move to Inter Milan fell through last summer.
The Italian giants have also softened their stance on Lookman after signing Giacomo Raspadori from Atletico Madrid earlier this window.
A good relationship with the Bergamo giants following the Raspadri deal gave Atletico an advantage in negotiations over Lookman.
The 28-year-old has been far from his best at club level this season, but he returned to form at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
advertise
He scored three goals and assisted four in the tournament, leading the Super Eagles to a third-place finish.
Lookman scored 20 goals and 7 assists in the 2024/25 season, and performed well in Serie A and the Champions League.
Atletico will be hoping the former Everton star can replicate the same form for the remainder of the season.
Lookman will also strengthen Atletico’s forward line after Antoine Griezmann suffered a hamstring injury.
As well as Lookman, Los Rojiblancos also plan to sign a striker and a midfielder before Monday’s deadline.
Al Hilal striker Marcos Leonardo has emerged as a top target, with Atletico Madrid pushing forward talks to agree a loan deal with an option to buy for the Brazilian.
advertise
Atletico Madrid have been mediocre under Simeone this season. They were eliminated from the Spanish Super Cup, relegated to the Champions League play-offs and finished third in La Liga, ten points behind leaders Barcelona.
