Atlético Madrid have agreed a €40 million deal to sign Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman from Italian side Atalanta, marking a new milestone in the growing history of Nigerian players in Spain’s top flight.
The Spanish club reached an agreement with Atalanta after weeks of negotiations, according to reports, with Lookman expected to complete personal terms and medical formalities ahead of an official unveiling.
Lookman, 27, arrives in Madrid after an impressive spell in Serie A, where he established himself as one of Atalanta’s key attacking figures. His performances at club level and on the international stage have drawn widespread attention across Europe.
The transfer also places Lookman among a select group of Nigerian footballers who have featured in LaLiga, Spain’s elite division. Over the years, Nigerian stars such as Emmanuel Amuneke, Finidi George, Mutiu Adepoju and Obafemi Martins have left their mark on Spanish football, contributing to the country’s enduring footprint in the league.
Atlético Madrid see Lookman as a versatile attacking option capable of operating across the frontline, as the club looks to strengthen its squad for domestic and European competitions.
The Nigeria international further boosted his profile with his performances for the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he played a key role in Nigeria’s deep run at the tournament, underlining his importance at both club and international levels.
With the move, Lookman becomes the latest Nigerian to test himself in LaLiga, continuing a legacy that spans decades and reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as a consistent exporter of elite football talent to Europe.
