Lookman chooses Atlético despite Fenerbahçe offer

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has prioritised a move to Atlético Madrid, rejecting a lucrative proposal from Turkish giants Fenerbahçe as his exit from Atalanta edges closer.

The Nigerian international has been the subject of intense transfer interest in recent days, with both clubs holding talks with Atalanta over a permanent deal.

While Fenerbahçe moved early and aggressively, the player’s preference has ultimately shaped the direction of negotiations.

Atalanta had initially reached a broad agreement with Fenerbahçe for a deal valued at €40 million plus bonuses.

However, the Italian club raised concerns over the proposed payment structure, which stalled progress despite the Turkish side’s willingness to meet the headline valuation.

Atlético meet Atalanta’s terms

Atlético Madrid entered the race later but moved faster. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Spanish club have now reached a verbal agreement with Atalanta on a €40 million deal after satisfying the Bergamo club’s preferred financial conditions.

“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 complete the transfer before the February 2 registration deadline across Europe’s top five leagues.

Player decision proves decisive

Fenerbahçe had attempted to sway Lookman with an improved personal package reportedly worth up to €9 million per season.

Despite the financial appeal, the 26-year-old has made it clear he favours a move to La Liga, viewing Atlético as the preferred sporting project.

Sources indicate Lookman personally communicated his decision to all parties, effectively ending Fenerbahçe’s hopes of landing the forward.

The development marks another step toward the end of Lookman’s time at Atalanta, where his future has been uncertain since last summer.

A long-anticipated departure

Lookman has been open to leaving the Serie A side following a widely reported fallout last year.

A proposed move to Inter Milan collapsed during negotiations, while interest from Paris Saint-Germain also failed to materialise into a deal.

Now, with Atlético Madrid moving into pole position, the forward appears set for a fresh start in Spain, pending the completion of formal transfer procedures.