Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has revealed that a personal conversation with Atlético Madrid manager Diego Pablo Simeone played a key role in his decision to join the Spanish giants during the winter transfer window.

The Nigerian international completed a move to the Rojiblancos from Atalanta in a deal reportedly worth €35 million, with add-ons of up to €5 million pushing the total package to €40 million. 

Lookman was officially unveiled at the Riyadh Air Metropolitan auditorium on Tuesday.

Speaking during his presentation, the 28-year-old disclosed that he spoke directly with Simeone before putting pen to paper, describing the interaction as positive and reassuring. 

"I met with him and we had a good conversation. It's fantastic to be able to talk to the person you're going to work with every day. So, very good," he said.

Lookman highlighted the qualities he hopes to bring to Diego Simeone’s side, stressing his pace, intensity and ability to influence decisive moments in matches.

"My game is very dynamic, it's based a lot on speed. I'm going to try to make the difference in those critical moments in the game. That's what I like to bring to the teams I join, and I love being able to help the team.

"It's a great challenge to be at Atlético de Madrid. The truth is, it's fantastic for me to be here. It's a great responsibility to represent my country, but it's also a pleasure to wear the colors of such a special club as Atlético de Madrid.

"Being here is extremely important to me; it's something I'm very proud of. It's also a pleasure for me to play in this very special league."

Adeyemi Adewale