The January transfer window is closing with a massive bang for Nigerian football as Ademola Lookman officially heads to La Liga. The Atalanta talisman and 2024 African Player of the Year has arrived in Spain to complete his medical ahead of a blockbuster €40 million move to Atletico Madrid.+1
Diego Simeone’s side reportedly beat out stiff competition from Fenerbahce to secure the 28-year-old’s signature. The deal—structured as a €35 million fixed fee plus €5 million in add-ons—marks a new chapter for Lookman, who became a global sensation after his historic hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final. With Atletico currently fighting for a top spot in La Liga and preparing for the Champions League knockout stages, Lookman’s clinical finishing and pace are expected to be the “X-factor” the Rojiblancos need.+2
Lookman makes history with this move, becoming the first Nigerian international to feature for Atletico Madrid’s senior team. After flourishing in Italy with 55 goals for Atalanta, the “King of Bergamo” is ready to bring the Afrobeat rhythm to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano
