Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has reportedly prioritised a move to Atlético Madrid, turning down a lucrative offer from Turkish giants Fenerbahçe as his exit from Atalanta draws closer.
The Nigerian international has attracted strong transfer interest in recent days, with both Atlético Madrid and Fenerbahçe holding talks with the Serie A side over a permanent deal.
Although Fenerbahçe moved early and aggressively in negotiations, Lookman’s personal preference ultimately shaped the outcome. Atalanta had initially reached a broad agreement with the Turkish club on a deal valued at €40 million plus bonuses, but concerns over the proposed payment structure stalled progress.
Atlético Madrid entered the race later but moved swiftly. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Spanish side have now reached a verbal agreement with Atalanta on a €40 million deal, having met the Italian club’s preferred financial terms.
“Atlético Madrid are closing in on Ademola Lookman deal tonight! The player has informed all parties about his desire to prioritise Atlético proposal despite Fenerbahçe improved salary bid,” Romano wrote on X.
“Verbal agreement on €40m deal. Formal steps expected today then… here we go.”
Formal documentation is expected to follow as Atlético aim to finalise the transfer ahead of the February 2 registration deadline across Europe’s top five leagues.
Fenerbahçe had attempted to tempt Lookman with an improved personal package reportedly worth up to €9 million per season, but the 26-year-old has made it clear that he favours a move to La Liga, viewing Atlético Madrid as the more attractive sporting project.
Sources indicate that Lookman personally communicated his decision to all parties involved, effectively ending Fenerbahçe’s hopes of securing his signature.
The development signals another step toward the end of Lookman’s time at Atalanta, where his future has remained uncertain since last summer. A proposed move to Inter Milan previously collapsed during negotiations, while interest from Paris Saint-Germain also failed to materialise.
With Atlético Madrid now firmly in pole position, the Super Eagles star appears set for a fresh start in Spain, pending the completion of formal transfer procedures.
