Atletico Madrid sign Ademola Lookman from Atalanta, with the Nigerian set to make history across Europe’s top leagues.
Atletico Madrid have completed the signing of Ademola Lookman from Atalanta. The deal is reported to be worth around £30.3m. The Nigerian forward arrives on transfer deadline day after passing his medical in Madrid. He has signed a contract running until June 2030.
The move strengthens Atletico’s attack at a critical stage of the season. Diego Simeone had pushed for added pace and creativity out wide. Club officials confirmed the agreement with Atalanta on Monday. Lookman joins immediately after completing his international commitments.
Lookman’s arrival also places him firmly in the history books. He will become the first English born player to feature in the Premier League, Bundesliga, Serie A and La Liga. Only 21 players have appeared in all four leagues. Just three have played across Europe’s traditional big five.
Born in London, Lookman began his career in England before spells in Germany and Italy. His move to Spain completes a rare continental journey. The milestone highlights his longevity and adaptability. It also underlines Atletico’s appeal at this stage of his career.
Lookman joined Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022. He quickly became one of Serie A’s most decisive attackers. Across competitions, he scored 55 goals and provided 27 assists. His impact was felt both domestically and in Europe.
The defining moment came in the 2024 Europa League final. Lookman scored a hat trick against Bayer Leverkusen. That performance delivered Atalanta their first European trophy. It also ended Leverkusen’s long unbeaten run.
Those displays earned Lookman major individual honours. In 2024, he was named African Footballer of the Year. He also finished 14th in the men’s Ballon d’Or rankings. He was the only African player shortlisted that year.
Internationally, Lookman made a significant career decision. He represented England at youth level and won the Under 20 World Cup in 2017. In 2022, he switched allegiance to Nigeria. He has since become a key figure for the Super Eagles.
Atletico see Lookman as an immediate contributor. The club have struggled for consistency in attack this season. Julian Alvarez has been short of form. Antoine Griezmann and Giuliano Simeone have both returned from injury.
Lookman offers flexibility across the front line. He can operate wide on the left or closer to goal. His dribbling and direct running suit Simeone’s transitional style. Atletico expect him to make an instant impact.
Atletico currently sit third in La Liga. They trail leaders Barcelona by ten points. Closing that gap remains difficult but not impossible. Consistency in the second half of the season is vital.
Attention now turns to the Copa del Rey quarterfinal against Real Betis. Lookman could be involved depending on fitness and registration timing. Atletico also face Club Brugge in the Champions League playoff later this month. His experience at European level could prove decisive.
Lookman described his move as a special opportunity. He spoke of excitement at joining a new league and culture. Atletico believe his arrival signals ambition during the winter window. The club hope his goals can reignite their campaign.
For Lookman, Spain offers a fresh challenge. His journey across Europe now feels complete. Atletico gain a proven winner. History has already been made before he kicks a ball.
