Spanish giants Atletico Madrid have reportedly taken the lead in the transfer race for Nigeria international Ademola Lookman, agreeing on a €40 million package with Atalanta and improving their salary proposal to the forward, according to reports from PUNCH Sports Extra.
The development puts Atletico ahead of Fenerbahce, who had previously expressed interest in the 28-year-old forward but remain stalled over payment terms and bank guarantees. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Atletico Madrid have matched Fenerbahce’s proposal and are ready to finalize the deal.
Negotiations between Fenerbahce and Atalanta reportedly broke down on Friday night, with no agreement reached regarding payment structures or guarantees required for the transfer. Despite the Turkish club’s willingness to invest around €40 million, uncertainty over financial terms has left Atletico Madrid in pole position to secure Lookman’s signature before the January transfer window closes on Monday.
Lookman, who had previously expressed interest in a move to Spain during the summer, could now finally join Diego Simeone’s squad, strengthening Atletico’s attacking options. The Nigerian forward has impressed in Serie A with Atalanta and remains a coveted asset for clubs across Europe.
With Atletico Madrid ready to meet Atalanta’s demands and Fenerbahce stalled on financial arrangements, the Spanish club appear poised to win the race for Lookman, potentially adding another talented forward to their roster ahead of the second half of the season.
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