Mansion Sports - Atletico Madrid continues to make strategic moves in the summer transfer window, recently securing the signing of American midfielder Johnny Cardoso on a five-year contract. 

The acquisition underscores the club’s commitment to strengthening its squad under Diego Simeone. 

However, Los Colchoneros now face a significant challenge in their pursuit of Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, whose profile has risen considerably following an impressive season in Serie A.

Atletico Madrid’s Transfer Activity Shows Strong Progress

As the summer transfer window reaches its midpoint, Atletico Madrid has displayed a high level of efficiency in executing its recruitment plans. 

The club has successfully landed the majority of its primary targets, with the notable exception of Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero, whose transfer remains unresolved.

Now, attention has turned to Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian international and standout performer for Atalanta. 

Reports indicate that Lookman is open to a move this summer, particularly following tensions with Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, which have potentially paved the way for an exit.

Intense Competition and Financial Obstacles in the Lookman Race

Barcelona has also been linked with Lookman, though their ongoing financial constraints are expected to hinder any serious attempt to sign the player. 

Atalanta, for their part, has placed a valuation of €50 million on the 2024 African Player of the Year—an amount that reflects his rising stature and recent performances.

While Atletico Madrid has expressed a strong interest in bringing Lookman to the Wanda Metropolitano, the club is hoping to negotiate a lower fee before submitting a formal bid.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, despite cordial relations between Atalanta and Atletico, the Spanish side is reluctant to meet the current asking price.

Additionally, Atletico’s internal financial structure necessitates that outgoing transfers be completed before new signings such as Lookman can be finalized.

Samuel Lino’s Sale Could Unlock Lookman Transfer

One of the key players Atletico Madrid is actively seeking to offload is Brazilian forward Samuel Lino. 

After a season in which his role diminished, the club has begun offering him to Premier League teams in an effort to generate the necessary funds for future acquisitions.

However, Atletico is not alone in its pursuit of Lookman. Inter Milan has reportedly made the Nigerian forward a top priority to bolster their attacking options. 

As per Gianluca Di Marzio, Inter has already reached personal terms with Lookman and is preparing an official offer in the region of €40 million.

Atletico Must Act Swiftly to Avoid Losing a Key Target

Should Atalanta remain firm on their €50 million valuation, Atletico may find the transfer financially unfeasible. 

Conversely, if the Italian club is willing to negotiate, Inter Milan appears poised to move swiftly and secure the player.

For Atletico Madrid, the successful acquisition of Lookman will likely hinge on their ability to finalize outgoing deals such as that of Lino and to convince the player of their project at the Estadio Metropolitano. 

Failure to do so could see one of their top summer targets join a European rival, marking a significant setback in their transfer strategy.