Ademola Lookman Transfer Saga: Super Eagles Star Hesitates on Atlético Madrid Move
The Nigerian football community is closely watching the ongoing transfer saga involving Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman. Despite significant interest from Spanish giants Atlético Madrid, the 28-year-old attacker is reportedly taking his time before making a decision on his future.
Lookman's Reluctance and Fenerbahce's Strong Position
According to multiple reports, Lookman is not fully convinced by the project and financial terms presented by Atlético Madrid. This hesitation has opened the door for other clubs to step in, with Turkish side Fenerbahce emerging as the frontrunner to secure his signature.
Turkish media outlet One Football reports that negotiations between Fenerbahce and Lookman's current club Atalanta have been ongoing for weeks, with both parties reportedly reaching a verbal agreement. The proposed package includes €35 million guaranteed with an additional €5 million in add-ons, which aligns with Atalanta's valuation of the player.
Record-Breaking Potential Transfer
If the deal with Fenerbahce is completed, Lookman would become the Turkish club's record signing, surpassing Mattéo Guendouzi's €28 million transfer earlier this season. Fenerbahce's sporting director Devin Özek has traveled to Italy to finalize terms, signaling the seriousness of their intent to secure the Nigerian international.
Despite the verbal agreements, sources indicate that the finer details of the payment structure remain a point of discussion between the clubs. This careful negotiation reflects the high stakes involved in what could be one of the most significant transfers in Turkish football history.
Lookman's Impressive Form and Career Considerations
Lookman's hesitation comes despite his impressive performances for both club and country. The forward had a stellar 2024/25 season with Atalanta, scoring 20 goals and providing six assists in 40 games across all competitions. His form continued into the current season, where he has featured in 19 matches, scoring three goals and providing two assists.
The Super Eagles star was particularly outstanding at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he led Nigeria to a bronze medal finish and was voted into the Team of the Tournament by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). His consistent performances earned him the African Player of the Year award in 2024, further cementing his status as one of Africa's premier football talents.
Previous Transfer Frustrations and Career Trajectory
Lookman's careful consideration of his career trajectory is understandable given his recent history with transfers. Last summer, the forward sought a move from Bergamo and publicly expressed frustration over broken promises from Atalanta. Despite interest from European giants Inter Milan and Bayern Munich, no agreement was reached after Atalanta blocked every effort to facilitate Lookman's departure.
This history of transfer frustrations has been highlighted by former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi, who recently criticized Italian clubs for their handling of player transfers. Onazi specifically pointed to Atalanta's refusal to sell Lookman despite serious interest and strong financial offers as a prime example of problematic transfer practices.
Atalanta's Stance and European Interest
Atalanta's position in the current negotiations reflects their recognition of Lookman's value to the team. The Italian club has been attacked for previously blocking Lookman's move, but they now appear more willing to negotiate given the substantial offers on the table.
While Atlético Madrid has made multiple enquiries and bids since Lookman's return from the AFCON, the Nigerian international's hesitation suggests he prefers to weigh all his options carefully. This approach indicates a player who is thinking strategically about his career development rather than rushing into a decision based solely on financial considerations.
The Broader Context of Nigerian Football Talent
Lookman's transfer situation highlights the growing recognition of Nigerian football talent on the international stage. As more Nigerian players establish themselves at top European clubs, their transfer decisions become increasingly significant for both their personal careers and the development of Nigerian football as a whole.
The careful consideration being given to this potential move reflects a mature approach to career management that could serve as a model for other Nigerian players navigating the complex world of international football transfers.
