In a significant move to bolster their attacking options, Atlético Madrid announced they have reached a final agreement with Italian club Atalanta for the transfer of Nigerian international striker Ademola Lookman. This move represents one of the biggest deals of the summer transfer window, given the high level of performance the player has displayed in Italian and European leagues.
Background and general context of the deal
This announcement comes as the culmination of negotiations between the two clubs. Atlético Madrid stated in their official announcement: “The two clubs have agreed on the transfer of Nigerian international Ademola Lookman (26 years old), who is already in Madrid.” The statement added that the completion of the deal remains contingent upon the player passing a routine medical examination and signing the official contract. According to reliable media reports, the transfer fee is approximately €35 million, reflecting the high value the Spanish club places on the Nigerian striker.
A remarkable performance and anticipated impact
Lookman arrives in the Spanish capital at the peak of his career, especially after his historic performance in the 2023-2024 Europa League final. He led his former team, Atalanta, to their first-ever European title by scoring a stunning hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, ending the German side's historic unbeaten run. His brilliance wasn't limited to that match; he had an exceptional season, scoring 17 goals and providing 10 assists across all competitions, making him a target for many of Europe's top clubs.
A football career full of challenges
Born in London, Lookman began his professional career at Charlton Athletic before moving to Everton in the English Premier League. After a period where he didn't fully establish himself, he had various experiences including a move to RB Leipzig in Germany, followed by loan spells at Fulham and Leicester City, before finding his niche at Atalanta in Italy in 2022. Under coach Gian Piero Gasperini, Lookman's goal-scoring talent exploded and he developed remarkably, becoming one of the most prominent strikers in Serie A.
Adding a strategy to Simeone's team
The signing of Lookman comes as a direct response to the demands of Argentine coach Diego Simeone, who sought to bolster the team's attacking options and add pace, dribbling ability, and finishing prowess. Lookman will provide strong support to Atlético Madrid's attacking line, which already boasts players like Antoine Griezmann and Álvaro Morata, and is expected to give the team a new attacking dimension and greater decisiveness in the final third of the pitch, both in La Liga and the Champions League.
