Lookman to leave Atlético for €50 million – Why Simeone wants to release the Super Eagles star

Super Eagles and Atletico Madrid forward Ademola Lookman could be set for a shock exit from the Riyadh Air Metropolitano this summer, Afriq Foot reports.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, the 28‑year‑old’s future at Atletico Madrid is under scrutiny, with the club willing to consider offers in the region of €50 million just months after signing him from Atalanta.

Lookman arrived in Spain on the back of a solid AFCON 2025 campaign in Morocco, but under Diego Simeone, things have not gone according to plan.

Ademola Lookman of Atletico Madrid vs Tottenham Hotspur. Photo by IMAGO

Why Atletico Madrid want to sell Lookman

While nine goals and three assists in 24 games for a player signed for €35 million isn’t a poor return, Atletico’s concerns with the 2024 CAF Player of the Year aren’t related to his numbers.

The main issue is the attacker’s ability to adapt to the tactical demands of Diego Simeone’s system.

According to the report, the Nigerian has clearly struggled with the defensive discipline and positional rigidity the Argentine coach demands. At Atletico, attacking players are expected to press relentlessly, track back, and maintain structure without the ball—traits that aren’t Lookman’s strengths.

Ademola Lookman and Antoine Griezmann of Atletico de Madrid celebrate. Copyright: ImagoxGonzalesxPhoto/LucianoxLimax

“Lookman brings us goals—honestly, more goals than overall play right now,” Diego Simeone previously said.

“He can still improve his build‑up play and his defensive work. We need him to adapt to the team’s philosophy in those aspects.”

“His attitude suggests he wants to improve as a footballer. He has that natural instinct; those goals are no coincidence. But we also need more from him in the collective game.”

Diego Simeone and Ademola Lookman. Copyright: xMarinaxFrutos/IMAGO

Lookman’s coach at RB Leipzig, Ralph Hasenhuttl, also revealed that the defensive lapses of the forward’s game were a key reason why he struggled in the German Bundesliga.

“Working hard off the ball was tough for him and maybe too much, which is why maybe he struggled,” the former Southampton coach said in an interview with the Sun.

“But he has had a good journey since. His dribbling and finishing is his biggest strength.”

Over the years, Simeone has prioritised his defensive tactical system over allowing players with flair to express themselves, which is why Joao Felix struggled to excel under the former Inter Milan midfielder.

Lookman, meanwhile, thrives under a far more fluid system where he is allowed to drift wide, attack spaces, and set up other teammates.

Can Lookman benefit from Atletico’s sale?

Atletico paid €35 million for Lookman in February, and a €50 million sale would mean they are looking to cash in on the Nigerian while his value is still high. Should they wait another year, in a system where his abilities are not being properly utilised, Lookman’s market value could hit a quick decline.

Galatasaray have already registered interest in the FIFA U‑20 World Cup winner, but whether he fancies a move to the Turkish Super Lig is unknown at the moment.

At 28, the former Leicester City forward cannot afford another season of tactical compromise, especially with Nigeria gunning for victory at the AFCON 2027 tournament. He’ll be looking for a system that suits his strengths and guarantees that he plays regular football.

Ademola Lookman and Jules Kounde Copyright: xJosexBretonx

From a footballing standpoint, Simeone’s concerns are understandable. His model has brought success to the Atletico fans for over a decade, considering where the club was when he took over as head coach.

His system as a master of the dark arts has earned Los Rojiblancos two La Liga titles and a run to the final of two UEFA Champions League finals.