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.
