Congratulations: Mixed emotions as Super Eagles star Lookman seals €40m Atletico Madrid move

Atletic​o Madrid have successfully hijacked Fenerbahce’s move for Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman securing the forward in a deal worth a total of €40 million (€35m fixed plus €5m in add-ons).

After weeks of speculation and a tug-of-war between Turkey and Spain, Lookman’s preference for La Liga and the opportunity to work under Diego Simeone proved decisive.

The Nigerian international, who recently shone at AFCON 2025 with three goals and four assists, fills the void left by Giacomo Raspadori’s departure earlier this winter.

The news has sent ripples through the Nigerian football community, with many celebrating the move as a long-overdue step up for the former Atalanta man.

One elated fan captured the general mood, stating: “Congratulations Lookman. Victory at last! Nigerians are now low-key Atletico Madrid fans. Absolutely love to see things like this.”

Others praised the strategic fit for a player known for his relentless work rate and tactical discipline.

“Interesting move. A defensive team with high pressing energy. He will do well in Atletico Madrid,” noted another supporter, while one simply remarked on the prestige of the destination: “Warra move, finally playing for a big club worthy of his quality.”

However, the excitement is tempered by a layer of skepticism regarding Diego "Cholo" Simeone’s rigid tactical system.

Historically, creative players have sometimes struggled to adapt to the Argentine’s defensive demands, leading to fears that Lookman’s attacking flair could be sacrificed.

“I'm happy Ademola Lookman is finally leaving Atalanta. Atletico, I hope Simeone won't turn him into a DM or CB,” one fan quipped, highlighting the coach’s reputation for demanding defensive duties from every player on the pitch.

A more critical perspective pointed to recent high-profile signings who have struggled at the Metropolitano:

“I don't trust Cholo to take his game to another level, considering the kind of football played at Atletico. Baena & Almada joined AM, and both have looked so ordinary.”

Despite the split in opinion, the statistics favour the move. Lookman arrives in Madrid as a seasoned European performer, fresh off a 2024/25 campaign where he netted 20 goals.

With Antoine Griezmann currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, Lookman is expected to be thrust into the starting lineup immediately.

As the formal steps and medicals conclude today, one thing is certain: the eyes of Nigeria will be firmly fixed on the Riyadh Air Metropolitano this season.