Atletico Madrid are edging closer to completing the signing of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, with the Spanish side set to make the Atalanta star their first major acquisition of the winter transfer window.
Los Colchoneros stepped up their search for attacking reinforcements following the departure of Giacomo Raspadori earlier in the window, prompting the club to move swiftly in the market.
Lookman has long been on Atletico’s shortlist, but talks have gathered pace in recent days as negotiations with Atalanta intensified. While Turkish giants Fenerbahce initially appeared favourites after opening discussions over a €40 million deal, Atletico have since overtaken them and are now on the verge of sealing the transfer.
Reports suggest the La Liga side are prepared to pay €35 million upfront, with an additional €5 million in performance-related bonuses. Only minor details remain before the deal is finalised. The Nigerian international has already approved the move, and discussions are continuing to wrap up personal terms.
Despite receiving an improved financial offer from Fenerbahce, Lookman is understood to have prioritised Atletico Madrid’s sporting project. A verbal agreement on a €40 million package is reportedly in place, with formal procedures expected to follow shortly.
If completed, Lookman will add pace, versatility and attacking creativity to Diego Simeone’s squad as Atletico aim to bolster their options for the remainder of the season at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
