By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
Spanish giants Atlético Madrid have officially completed the permanent signing of Nigerian international Ademola Lookman from Italian side Atalanta, securing the Super Eagles star on a long-term deal.
The La Liga club confirmed that Lookman has committed his future to Atlético until June 30, 2030, marking a major addition to Diego Simeone’s attacking options.
At 28, Lookman arrives in Madrid as a proven, versatile forward. Naturally right-footed, he is comfortable operating as a winger on either side of the pitch or in a supporting striker role. Known for his speed, sharp dribbling, and direct attacking style, the Nigerian brings creativity and penetration to Atlético’s frontline.
Before the deal was finalized, Lookman successfully completed his medical examinations at the Vithas-Invictum High-Performance Sports Medicine Centre at Arturo Soria University Hospital. He later visited the club’s headquarters at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, where he was formally welcomed by Atlético’s CEO, Miguel Ángel Gil, and put pen to paper on his contract.
Lookman’s career has taken him across several top European leagues. He previously featured for Everton, RB Leipzig, Fulham, and Leicester City before joining Atalanta in 2022, where he rose to global prominence with a series of standout performances.
Although he represented England at youth level—most notably winning the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2017—Lookman switched international allegiance and made his senior debut for Nigeria in 2022.
His rise reached a peak in 2024 when he was crowned African Footballer of the Year. That same year, he made history as the only African player shortlisted for the men’s Ballon d’Or, finishing an impressive 14th overall.
On the international stage, Lookman played a key role at the Africa Cup of Nations, scoring three goals as Nigeria secured a third-place finish after a dramatic semifinal exit on penalties against Morocco.
Atlético Madrid currently sit third in La Liga after 22 matches, trailing Real Madrid and league leaders Barcelona, and will be hoping Lookman’s arrival boosts their title push in the second half of the season.
