Ademola Lookman Makes Bold Career Move, Choosing Atletico Madrid Over Lucrative Turkish Offer
In a stunning decision that has captured the attention of the football world, Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has rejected a staggering ₦18 billion-per-year salary offer from Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, opting instead for a transfer to Spanish powerhouse Atletico Madrid. This move represents a significant career choice for the Nigerian international, prioritizing sporting ambition over immediate financial gain.
Transfer Saga Concludes with La Liga Agreement
After weeks of intense speculation and negotiations, Atletico Madrid has reached a verbal agreement with Italian club Atalanta for Lookman's transfer. The deal is valued at €35 million upfront, with an additional €5 million in performance-based add-ons, bringing the total potential value to €40 million. This agreement marks the likely conclusion of a prolonged transfer saga that has seen multiple European clubs express interest in the talented forward.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Lookman has now informed all parties of his clear preference to join the La Liga club. This decision comes despite initial reports that the 28-year-old had agreed on personal terms with Fenerbahçe for a potential winter transfer. Negotiations with the Turkish side reportedly stalled when they failed to meet Atalanta's €40 million valuation for the player.
Lookman's Impressive Career Trajectory
Since joining Atalanta in the summer of 2022, Lookman has established himself as a key figure for the Italian club. His statistics speak volumes about his impact, with 55 goals and 27 assists in 137 appearances across all competitions. His contributions were instrumental in Atalanta's first European title, and he has consistently demonstrated both versatility and reliability, operating effectively as both a winger and forward.
The Nigerian forward's decision follows another impressive showing for the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he played a crucial role in leading Nigeria to a bronze medal finish. His performances on the international stage have only heightened interest from top European clubs seeking to bolster their attacking options.
Next Steps and Implications
With the agreement now in place, logistical preparations are underway for Lookman's move to Spain. Reports indicate he will travel to Madrid in the coming days to undergo a medical examination and finalize his contract with Atletico Madrid. This transfer represents a major investment for the Spanish club and underscores their faith in Lookman's abilities to contribute significantly to their squad.
The move provides a substantial boost for the Super Eagles, as one of their key players prepares to compete at the highest level in European football. Lookman's career trajectory continues its upward momentum as he prepares to take on new challenges in La Liga, aiming to make a lasting impact both for his new club and for the Nigerian national team.
This transfer decision highlights the growing trend of Nigerian players making strategic career moves that balance financial considerations with sporting ambitions. Lookman's choice to join one of Spain's traditional powerhouses over a more lucrative offer from Turkey demonstrates his commitment to testing himself against the best competition in European football.
