Ademola Lookman: Adepoju welcomes Nigeria star move to Atletico Madrid

Former Nigerian international Mutiu Adepoju has backed Nigeria winger Ademola Lookman to leave a mark at Atletico Madrid after completing a transfer to the Spanish side from Atalanta on transfer deadline day.

The 28-year-old arrived at the Metropolitano on Monday in a deal reportedly valued at €35 million, with an additional €5 million in performance-related add-ons.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Atlético de Madrid (@atleticodemadrid)

Lookman, who was a cornerstone of Atalanta’s recent European success, committed to a long-term contract that will keep him in the Spanish capital until June 2030.

‘He is a very good addition to the team’

Reacting to the transfer, Adepoju told Complete Sports: “I think it’s a very bold move and I really, really love it.

“I think he’s going to a place where he is going to show his quality and everything that Ademola Lookman is about. I am very sure he is going to have a lot of support from Atletico Madrid.

“They are one of the biggest clubs in Spain and everybody knows the history of Ademola Lookman. He is a very good addition to the team and I think Lookman is going to have a great year at Atletico Madrid and in La Liga.

“I really love the move and I wish him all the best because I know he is a great guy and he deserves to be happy. I am very sure he is going to be happy because he is a great guy and a great footballer too.”

While several Premier League clubs and Turkish giants Fenerbahçe were linked with the winger throughout January, the strong relationship between his new club and Atalanta—following previous deals involving Conor Gallagher and Giacomo Raspadori—paved the way for a smooth negotiation.

Lookman is expected to join first-team training immediately and could be available for selection as early as Thursday’s Copa del Rey quarterfinal fixture at Real Betis.