Atlético Madrid have completed the signing of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman from Italian side Atalanta in a permanent transfer.

The La Liga giants paid €40 million to secure the services of the 28-year-old, who has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract with Diego Simeone’s side. Lookman joins Atlético after an outstanding spell in Serie A, where he established himself as one of Atalanta’s most influential players in recent history.

Lookman arrived in Bergamo in 2022 from Bundesliga club RB Leipzig and went on to enjoy a prolific stint with La Dea, scoring 55 goals and providing 27 assists across all competitions. His performances were pivotal to Atalanta’s rise on the European stage.

The Nigeria international’s defining moment came during the 2023/24 season, when he produced a historic hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final, leading Atalanta to their first-ever European title and ending the club’s 61-year wait for a major trophy. The achievement cemented his status as a club icon and one of the standout performers in European football.

Following the completion of his transfer, Lookman penned an emotional farewell message to Atalanta supporters, teammates, and club officials. In a post shared on his official X handle, he expressed gratitude for the support he received during his nearly four years at the club.

“After nearly four years, the time has come for me to say goodbye,” Lookman wrote. “From the moment I arrived in Bergamo, you welcomed me like one of your own and pushed me to be the best version of myself.”

Reflecting on the Europa League triumph, Lookman described the night as unforgettable, adding that the memories would remain with him forever. He also highlighted winning the 2024 African Player of the Year award while at Atalanta as a personal milestone he would always cherish.

“Those moments, those emotions, those nights under the lights, they’re engraved in my heart,” he said.

Lookman reserved special praise for the Atalanta fans, noting that their passion and unwavering support played a crucial role in the team’s success. He signed off his message with the words, “Grazie di tutto, ciao.”

The former Charlton Athletic forward, who began his professional career in 2015, now embarks on a new chapter in Spain. His move to Atlético Madrid sees the Super Eagles star bring his experience, flair, and big-game pedigree to La Liga, as he prepares to work under Simeone and compete at the highest level in Spanish football.