Spanish giants Atlético Madrid have confirmed the signing of Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman from Atalanta.

The 28-year-old has agreed a contract with the La Liga club until 30 June 2030, marking the latest chapter in a career that has spanned four of Europe’s top leagues.

Lookman, who began his professional football career in England before moving on to Germany and Italy, expressed his excitement at joining Atlético Madrid. 

Speaking to Atletico Madrid's official channel, after the completion of his transfer, he described the move as “very special” and said he was “very happy to be here.”

He added, “Yeah, it's an amazing club. So, it's a blessing to be here. So, very happy. Like you said, I played in three other top leagues and I'm coming to another top league, a top country also and also a new language.”

The forward acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, noting his eagerness to embrace them.

“New challenges ahead for me, but I'm very very excited about it. I'm looking forward to it. I like to learn. I like to to grow and to be better. Coming here is what I'm looking to do,” Lookman said.

He also emphasized his commitment to contributing to the team, stating, “And also, you know, to join a group of of amazing guys, amazing footballers, and just to help as much as I can, and to, you know, win, be the best as I can be every single day to learn, to improve, to get better, because I think I can still improve and get better.”

Reflecting on the excitement of joining a new club, Lookman added, “It's it's a new challenge for me. So that brings a sense of excitement. So for me I'm excited to do that. Very, very passionate, very much behind the team.” 

He also highlighted the importance of the club’s supporters, noting, “They live and and breathe football. So yeah I am very aware of the of the fans and the supporters here and, you know, the passion that they bring to the club and to the players and the team is special.”

With this move, Lookman becomes the first English-born player to have featured in the Premier League, Bundesliga, Serie A, and La Liga, a testament to his adaptability and experience across Europe’s elite competitions.

Atlético Madrid and Atalanta finalized the transfer agreement Monday, officially bringing the former Africa Footballer of the Year to the Spanish capital, where he is expected to compete at the highest level for the next four and a half years.

Wale Adejumo