Last Updated on January 30, 2026 by Gabriel
With the January deadline fast approaching, Diego Simeone has pivoted his focus to Bergamo, targeting both Brazilian midfielder Ederson and Nigerian star Ademola Lookman.
Goretzka Rejection Forces Plan B
The search for a successor to Conor Gallagher (who recently joined Tottenham) has hit a significant roadblock. Leon Goretzka has officially declined a move to the Metropolitano, opting to see out the remainder of his contract with Bayern Munich until June.
Left with a void in the middle of the park, Atlético’s Sporting Director Mateu Alemany has turned to a long-term target: Ederson.
The Ederson Pursuit: A €50m Battle
Atlético are reportedly accelerating talks for the 26-year-old Brazilian. Having banked approximately €40m from the Gallagher sale, Los Colchoneros are prepared to reinvest that sum, but Atalanta are holding firm.
- The Asking Price: Reports from Italy suggest Atalanta want at least €50m to €60m to release Ederson mid-season.
- The Competition: Inter Milan and Juventus remain in the wings, but Atlético’s willingness to offer a long-term deal until 2030 could prove decisive.
The Lookman Hijack?
In a stunning twist reported by Fabrizio Romano, Atlético have also inquired about Ademola Lookman. The Nigerian international appeared to be on the verge of joining Fenerbahçe for a package worth €40m, but a disagreement over payment terms has opened the door for Simeone.
Atlético are looking to bolster their attack following a disappointing Champions League loss to Bodø/Glimt, and Lookman’s versatility is seen as the perfect “X-factor” for the second half of the season.
Transfer Tracker: Atleti’s Midfield Targets
| Target | Status | Est. Fee |
| Leon Goretzka | Rejected (Staying at Bayern) | – |
| Ederson | Primary Target (In talks) | €50m – €60m |
| Ademola Lookman | Market Opportunity | €40m |
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
