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Atletico Madrid Intensify Pursuit of €40m Nigeria International Ademola Lookman Amid Fenerbahce Rivalry

Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman

Key Takeaways:

  • Atletico Madrid have renewed efforts to secure Ademola Lookman before the transfer window closes
  • Fenerbahce’s €40m offer for Lookman is reportedly at an advanced stage, though player approval remains unconfirmed
  • Primary midfield target Leon Goretzka confirmed on Friday he will remain at Bayern Munich until summer

Transfer Window Pressures Mount for Atletico Madrid

With the end of the transfer window fast approaching, Atletico Madrid have heightened their attempts to reinforce their squad, particularly focusing on Nigeria international Ademola Lookman. The Spanish club had previously shown interest in Lookman last summer, but discussions stalled and a transfer for the 28-year-old could not be finalised at that time.

Atletico’s transfer strategy was disrupted on Friday morning when Leon Goretzka, their prime midfield target, announced his intention to stay at Bayern Munich and wait until his contract expires in the summer. This development has prompted Sporting Director Mateu Alemany to seek alternatives, with Inter’s Davide Frattesi now emerging as a potential midfield acquisition. However, the main focus continues to be securing Lookman’s signature.

Fenerbahce Enter Advanced Negotiations for Lookman

Atletico Madrid are not the only club vying for Lookman’s services. Fenerbahce are reportedly in advanced negotiations to land the attacker, with Fabrizio Romano stating that the “deal is at the final stages” and is valued at €40m, inclusive of variables. It remains uncertain whether Lookman has formally agreed to make the switch to the Turkish side.

Atletico’s Bid and Transfer Implications

Reports from Marca confirm that Atletico Madrid are determined to do all they can to bring Lookman to Spain, though they acknowledge that Fenerbahce’s current proposal is financially superior. Earlier in the summer, Lookman had expressed an interest in joining a Spanish club, which could factor into the eventual decision.

Diario AS further reports that Fenerbahce’s Sporting Director Devin Ozek is presently in Bergamo, working to finalise the transfer with Lookman’s current club.

Other Transfer Targets

Alongside their pursuit of a forward such as Lookman, Mateu Alemany is also prioritising the addition of a midfielder. Paris Saint-Germain’s Kang-In Lee had initially been the preferred target for this role, but PSG are unwilling to discuss a move before the summer period. Atletico could attempt to sign both Goretzka and Lookman once more during the summer, dependent on the business Alemany is able to conclude before the transfer window closes on the 2nd of February.


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