Atletico Start: Ademola Lookman Returns to Pre-Season Amid Transfer Noise

By Zee Dladla | 15.07.2026 | Sports Last Updated On 15.07.2026

Atletico Start: Ademola Lookman Returns to Pre-Season Amid Transfer Noise

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has returned to pre-season work with Atletico Madrid as he prepares for the 2026/27 campaign.

Lookman was not included in Nigeria’s June international friendlies against Poland and Portugal, with Atletico requesting his absence so he could recover properly before the new season.

Atletico, who ended last term in fourth place in La Liga to secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League, are set to kick off the 2026/27 league schedule at home against newly promoted Malaga on August 16.

Interest from Fenerbahce

  1. While Lookman has begun his preparations in Spain, Fenerbahce are reportedly working on another attempt to sign the Nigerian winger.
  2. Reports from Turkey claim that Fenerbahce’s pursuit will intensify if winger Kerem Akturkoglu completes a proposed €35 million transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli.
  3. Fenerbahce previously came close to landing Lookman during the last winter window, but Atletico ultimately won the race for his signature.
  4. Turkish outlet Takvim says the Turkish side has restarted its interest in the Super Eagles player, whose estimated market value stands at €40 million.
Written by Staff Writer

Zibuyile began her media journey as a sales intern at Mediamark (Kagiso Media) before moving into digital content creation for ZAlebs.com. Over four years, she helped evolve the platform from a simple blog into one of South Africa's leading independent entertainment news sites.

Following ZAlebs' transition to Celebrity Worx in 2016, Zibuyile was promoted to Executive Editor, recognized for her sharp audience insight and ability to match editorial with branded content. Highlights of her time include a Bookmark Award nomination, judging TLC's Next Great Presenter, reporting from the MTV EMAs, and building partnerships with radio stations like YFM, Cliff Central, and Good Hope FM.

Her editorial work also expanded to include fast-growing digital verticals—such as lifestyle tech, online entertainment, and gambling-related content—tailored to evolving reader interests and brand opportunities.

Published on 15.07.2026
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