Fulham have rebuffed a £21.5 million (approximately N44 billion) approach from Atletico Madrid for Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi.

The Spanish giants made their move as part of a summer rebuild after finishing third in La Liga last season, with manager Diego Simeone keen on bringing Alex Iwobi’s versatility and energy to the Metropolitano.

But, according to AfricaFoot, Fulham swiftly turned down the bid, making it clear that the 29-year-old remains central to Marco Silva’s long-term plans.

Iwobi, who only joined Fulham from Everton in September 2023 for a fee believed to be around £22 million, has enjoyed a solid run in West London, quickly becoming a fan favourite thanks to his tireless work rate and adaptability across midfield and attacking positions. He still has three years left on his current contract.

Sources close to the deal revealed that Iwobi was offered personal terms worth around £115,000 per week by Atletico Madrid.

However, neither Fulham nor the player saw the move coming. It is understood that Iwobi is settled in London and focused on continuing his progress under Silva’s leadership.

Since arriving at Craven Cottage, Iwobi has notched up 15 goals and 8 assists in 77 appearances — an impressive return considering his wide-ranging tactical duties. His performances have attracted attention across Europe, but Fulham are in no rush to part with one of their most reliable performers.

Iwobi’s career has been firmly rooted in English football. A graduate of Arsenal’s esteemed Hale End academy, he made his senior debut for the Gunners in 2015 and racked up 149 appearances, contributing 15 goals and 23 assists. He moved to Everton in 2019 for £28 million shortly after helping Nigeria secure bronze at the Africa Cup of Nations.

During his time at Goodison Park, Iwobi was deployed in multiple roles — including as a full-back under Frank Lampard — but still managed 9 goals and 17 assists in 150 appearances.

On the international stage, Iwobi has been a regular for Nigeria, earning 80 caps and scoring 10 goals. He played a key role in their run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where they finished runners-up.

With three seasons still remaining on his contract and Fulham keen to build around his experience and versatility, any suitor hoping to lure Iwobi away from Craven Cottage will likely need to offer considerably more, both in fee and ambition.