Lookman Signed Fenerbahce Contract Before Atletico Move

Nigeria international Ademola Lookman had reportedly agreed personal terms and signed a contract with Turkish giants Fenerbahce before his eventual transfer to Atletico Madrid earlier this year.

According to Turkish journalist Ibrahim Seten, Fenerbahce only needed to countersign the agreement and forward it to the Turkish Football Federation for approval, but delays within the club ultimately cost them the deal.

Seten claimed the Istanbul side chose to prioritise negotiations for N’Golo Kante instead of immediately finalising Lookman’s transfer. During the delay, Atletico Madrid reportedly entered the race and quickly completed a €40m move, including add-ons, for the Nigerian forward in February.

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The transfer has since proven successful for the Spanish club, with Lookman enjoying an impressive start under coach Diego Simeone. The 28-year-old forward has registered nine goals and four assists in 23 appearances, helping Atletico reach the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and the Copa del Rey final.

Lookman has also maintained strong domestic form, scoring in consecutive La Liga matches, including Atletico’s recent 1-0 victory over Girona FC.

Meanwhile, Fenerbahce’s failure to strengthen adequately during the January transfer window reportedly sparked criticism from supporters after the club finished behind rivals Galatasaray in the league standings.