Ademola Lookman: Boost for Borussia Dortmund as Super Eagles star joins Atletico Madrid

Atletico Madrid have landed Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, a proven goalscorer to bolster their attack under Diego Simeone.

However, Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund also stand to gain an unexpected edge in their UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-off against Atalanta.

Lookman, 28, completed his €35 million (plus up to €5m in add-ons) move from Atalanta to Atletico, signing until 2030.

The former Everton winger has been a revelation since moving to Italy, impressing with 82 goal contributions in 137 games for Atalanta. He also cemented his place in the heart of the fans with a hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final.

The transfer's timing delivers a timely boost to Dortmund, who face Atalanta in the two-legged tie: first leg on February 17 at Signal Iduna Park, second on February 25 in Bergamo.

Lookman's departure removes one of Atalanta's biggest threats and a player who has shown an uncanny ability to seize the biggest moments.

For Atletico, they get a versatile forward at the peak of his powers, who will be eagr to reinvent himself after a difficult start to the season in Serie A.

Lookman reminded the world of his quality with his performances at the just-concluded AFCON 2025, where he contributed the most goal involvements (3 goals and 4 assists). He was a major driving force as Nigeria picked up Bronze in Morocco.

There were several clubs keen on the Nigerian, including Turkish side Fenerbahce, who were desperate to land an elite attacker, but Lookman's desire to remain in the top five leagues paved the way for Atletico to pounce.

Despite a tough start to the 2025-26 season, a motivated Lookman remains one of the most dangerous forwards in Europe.