The final hours of the January 2026 transfer window have descended into chaos as Atlético Madrid launched a sensational late bid to snatch Atalanta star Ademola Lookman from the clutches of Fenerbahçe. What appeared to be a secured deal for the Turkish giants just 24 hours ago has taken a “dramatic turn” due to financial logistics.
The Stalling of the Istanbul Deal
Negotiations between Atalanta and Fenerbahçe reached a significant wall despite a verbal agreement on a €40m package (€35m guaranteed plus €5m in add-ons). While the total valuation was accepted by both parties, the structure of the deal became a major sticking point:
- Atalanta’s Demand: The Italian club is insisting on a larger upfront payment to ensure immediate liquidity.
- Fenerbahçe’s Proposal: The Turkish side has pushed for a more staggered payment structure and has reportedly struggled to satisfy Atalanta’s requirements for bank guarantees.
Atlético Madrid’s Strategic Counter-Move
Sensing “blood in the water,” Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid acted swiftly. The Spanish side has matched the €40m total valuation but offered a structure far more favorable to the Bergamo-based club.
Key advantages of the Atlético bid include:
- Front-Heavy Payments: Meeting Atalanta’s preference for a higher initial installment.
- Financial Readiness: Reports indicate Atléti’s financial guarantees are already “ready to go,” bypassing the hurdles currently slowing down the Turkish proposal.
The Player’s Stance and Imminent Exit
The momentum has shifted significantly toward Madrid, not only due to the club-to-club negotiations but also personal terms. Atlético has reportedly improved their salary proposal to Lookman, rivaling the lucrative terms originally offered by Fenerbahçe.
The strongest indicator of an imminent move came from the Atalanta camp itself, as Lookman was omitted from the club’s latest squad selection. While Fenerbahçe is reportedly working “frantically” to resolve their banking issues, industry insiders suggest the momentum is now firmly with the La Liga side.
Transfer Breakdown:
- Player: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta)
- Valuation: €40 Million (€35m + €5m add-ons)
- Leading Suitor: Atlético Madrid (Momentum shift)
- Stalled Suitor: Fenerbahçe (Struggling with payment structure)
- Current Status: Omitted from squad; transfer imminent.
Source: Transfer Market
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