Lookman out of Atalanta squad as Fenerbahce & Atletico transfer battle erupts

Ademola Lookman’s future at Atalanta has suddenly become one of the hottest transfer sagas of the window, with both Fenerbahce and Atletico Madrid pushing to sign the Nigerian forward.

Reports from Turkey claim Fenerbahce had already reached a broad agreement with Atalanta on a deal worth €35m plus €5m in bonuses.

However, the negotiations have reportedly stalled over payment terms. Atalanta are said to want a larger portion of the fee paid upfront, while the Turkish side prefer a more staggered structure.

BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta runs with the ball away from Elia Caprile of Cagliari during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Transfer battle erupts for Lookman as Atletico & Fenerbahce tussle

According to those same sources, via Sport Mediaset, Fenerbahce are reluctant to alter their proposed schedule and are now waiting on Atalanta’s final stance.

At the same time, Atletico Madrid have also struck an agreement in principle with the Bergamo club on a similar overall package.

The key difference appears to be the financial structure, with the Spanish side not facing the same demands regarding advance payments.

Despite that, the move is far from done, as the player himself has not yet fully opened the door to joining the Colchoneros.

BERGAMO, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC controls the ball whilst under pressure from Niccolo Fortini of Fiorentina during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and ACF Fiorentina at Gewiss Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The reports claim that Atletico’s proposed salary is nowhere near that of the Turkish Super Lig side, giving Lookman further food for thought.

With two clubs circling and negotiations running on parallel tracks, Lookman’s omission from the Atalanta squad has only fuelled speculation that an exit could be imminent. The coming days are likely to be decisive as all parties try to find a formula that works.