Atletico Madrid are keen on securing the services of Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi as they continue their summer transfer business, with the Spanish giants preparing to return with an improved offer following their initial rejected bid.
The La Liga club have already been busy in the transfer market this week, with Alex Baena and Matteo Ruggeri arriving at the Riyadh Metropolitano to join Diego Simeone’s squad for pre-season preparations. Johnny Cardoso is also expected to complete his move from Real Betis in the coming days.
However, Los Colchoneros remain determined to add the Nigeria international to their ranks despite Fulham’s firm rejection of their £21.5m opening bid earlier this week.
According to HammyEnd.com, the Cottagers made it clear that the 29-year-old is not for sale at this time, viewing him as a key part of Marco Silva’s plans.
The initial approach, first reported by Africa Foot, included a four-year contract worth approximately £115,000 per week in an attempt to lure Iwobi away from West London. The offer was swiftly turned down by Fulham, who paid £22m to bring the versatile midfielder from Everton in September 2023.
It has now been reported by Africafoot (via Diario AS) that Iwobi remains on Atleti’s shortlist, with club officials said to be preparing an improved offer of €25m.
The departure of Rodrigo Riqueme, coupled with the possible exit of Conor Gallagher, would leave Atletico slightly short in the left midfield position, despite having the recently signed Baena and Samuel Lino in that area.
Iwobi’s versatility makes him an attractive proposition for Simeone’s system. The Nigeria international can operate on both wings, providing cover for Giuliano Simeone on the right flank, whilst also being capable of playing as a central midfielder – a quality that would prove valuable even with Cardoso’s impending arrival.
Since joining Fulham, Iwobi has become a fan favourite at Craven Cottage, delivering consistent performances across 77 appearances. In the 2024/25 season alone, he registered nine goals and six assists in the Premier League, taking his overall tally for the club to 15 goals and eight assists.
The former Arsenal academy graduate’s international pedigree also adds to his appeal, with 80 caps and 10 goals for the Super Eagles. He played a crucial role in helping Nigeria reach the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations earlier last year.
The Nigerian still has three years remaining on his current deal at Craven Cottage, placing Fulham in a strong negotiating position should Atletico return with a more substantial offer.
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