Lookman, who has been linked with a move away from La Dea over several transfer windows, has yet to make the switch, with Atalanta proving tough negotiators.
Fenerbahçe Leading the Race
Turkish side Fenerbahçe have emerged as the front-runners in the pursuit of Lookman, outpacing rival Galatasaray. After weeks of negotiations and the rejection of informal bids, Fenerbahçe reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Atalanta. The deal was said to meet Atalanta’s asking price of €40 million, structured as €35 million guaranteed with €5 million in add-ons, though the payment terms remained a key sticking point.
Atletico Madrid Attempts to Intervene
Hoping to capitalize on delays in the Fenerbahçe negotiations, Atletico Madrid reportedly entered the fray, contacting Atalanta in a bid to secure Lookman for La Liga. The Rojiblancos, who completed the transfer of Giacomo Raspadori earlier in the window, offered a package worth €30 million—well short of Atalanta’s €40 million demand.
According to journalist Yago Sabuncuoglu, Atletico’s offer was “summarily rejected” by the Serie A club. Lookman, who is understood to prefer a move to Spain, is reportedly waiting to see if Atletico can improve their offer and meet Atalanta’s valuation.
With Fenerbahçe reportedly ahead in negotiations, the coming days may be crucial in determining the forward’s next destination.