Atletico Madrid is considering letting Nigerian attacker Ademola Lookman leave the club just months after bringing him to Spain in one of the club’s greatest winter signings of 2026.
The 28-year-old joined Diego Simeone’s side from Italian club Atalanta in February for about €35 million, with a further €5 million available in potential add-ons. He signed a long-term contract until June 2030 and arrived in Madrid with high hopes, having established himself as one of Serie A’s most dangerous attacking players.
However, sources in Spain and Turkey currently indicate that Atlético are willing to listen to bids for the Super Eagles player during the summer transfer window.
Simeone is believed to have approved the choice, as Atlético continues to develop its team in preparation for next season.
Lookman’s troubles have been attributed to tactical issues inside Simeone’s system. The former Everton and Leicester City winger is recognized for his straight dribbling, attacking freedom, and rapid transitions, but he has struggled to adjust to Atlético’s strict defensive framework.
Despite these fears, Lookman delivered key moments after arriving in Spain midway through the season. He scored four La Liga goals and also hit the net in the Copa del Rey and UEFA Champions League matches during Atlético’s campaign.
Atlético are now thought to value the Nigerian international at about €60 million as they aim to quickly recover cash and reinforce other elements of the squad before the season begins.
Ademola Lookman: Premier League clubs are monitoring
Lookman’s unclear future is sure to pique the interest of various clubs across Europe, particularly in England, where he previously played for Charlton Athletic, Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City.
Arsenal is one of the clubs apparently keeping a close eye on developments. Mikel Arteta is said to enjoy Lookman’s versatility, since the winger can play on either flank or through the centre.
Arsenal is also searching for further attacking help for Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli as they prepare for another challenging Premier League and Champions League season.
Liverpool has also been connected with the Super Eagles forward. The Reds have been keeping an eye on him since his time at Atalanta, and they believe his strong pressing style and pace will complement their attacking approach.
Manchester United is another club that is attentively monitoring the issue. United are looking for more consistent goals from wide areas, and Lookman’s performance in key European matches is improving.
His legendary Europa League final hat-trick for Atalanta remains one of his career highlights. Outside of England, Turkish club Fenerbahçe is anticipated to return for the player, having nearly signed him before Atlético finalized the move earlier this year.
Paris Saint-Germain is also thought to be intrigued, as they continue to look for dynamic attacking options capable of consistently performing in Europe.
Ademola Lookman: Salary, transfer fee could shape next move
Ademola Lookman’s salary package in Madrid is an important consideration for any future transfer. According to reports, the Nigerian makes approximately €6 million net every season, which would represent a very expensive wage commitment for many clubs outside of England.
Premier League clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United may see that sum grow to more than £200,000 per week before tax deductions.
While United could easily absorb those payments, Liverpool’s structure is often harsher unless the player is deemed a certain starter. Arsenal would also need to carefully consider their wage structure.
Paris Saint-Germain would presumably suffer fewer financial challenges due to their increased spending capacity, whilst Fenerbahçe might take advantage of Turkey’s favorable tax system to make an appealing offer.
The Turkish club had already signed a personal agreement with Lookman when Atlético hijacked the deal in late January.
After Lookman’s remarkable tenure at Atalanta, where he scored 55 goals, Italian clubs Inter Milan and Juventus have expressed interest.
However, given recent financial limits in Italy, Serie A teams may find it impossible to match Atlético’s asking price and compensation expectations.