It’s official! Just as the winter transfer window was closing, Atlético Madrid confirmed the signing of Nigerian international Ademola Lookman from Atalanta on February 2, 2026.​This is a massive move for both the player and the club. After a historic stint in Italy, Lookman is heading to La Liga to join Diego Simeone’s project at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano

​Contract Duration: 4.5 years (signed until June 30, 2030).​Transfer Fee: Approximately €35 million initial fee, with add-ons potentially bringing the total to €40 million.​Status: He has already passed his medical and signed his contract with CEO Miguel Ángel Gil.

​Second Most Expensive Nigerian: This transfer makes Lookman the second-most expensive Nigerian footballer in history, trailing only Victor Osimhen.​Strategic Fit: Simeone has been looking for “pace and creativity” to bolster an attack that has seen Julián Álvarez and Alexander Sørloth struggle with consistency. Lookman’s ability to play as a winger or a second striker fits “Cholo” Simeone’s tactical flexibility perfectly.​End of a Tense Era: The move ends a somewhat turbulent period at Atalanta where Lookman had previously pushed for a move. He leaves Bergamo as a legend, however, primarily for that iconic hat-trick

Lookman’s Parting Words​Following the announcement, Lookman posted an emotional farewell to the Atalanta fans on social media:​”Together we made history. European champions, a night none of us will ever forget… From day one, you stood by me.”