Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino has accepted Ademola Lookman’s departure to Atletico Madrid as an inevitable part of modern football, thanking him for the service to the club, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The Nigeria international’s €40m switch to the Spanish capital came just days after Atalanta president Luca Percassi had insisted the forward was not available for transfer amid Napoli’s interest.

Palladino acknowledged the player’s ambitions while expressing gratitude for his contribution to the Italian club.

“It’s a dynamic that’s part of today’s football,” the 41-year-old told Tutto Atalanta.

“Lookman had this important request, expressed the will to seize it and chose Atletico Madrid. You have to respect his decision and thank him for what he gave.

“We look forward to the strong players we have at our disposal and with the desire to continue to amaze.”

At his new club, Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone wasted no time in praising the 2024 African Player of the Year, saying that the 28-year-old could feature for Los Colchoneros imminently.

Lookman completed his four-year deal on Monday and reported for training a day later alongside fellow winter arrivals Rodri Mendoza and Obed Vargas.

“Three important players arrived, of which we’re going to need them, and we’ll work together to finish the season in the best way possible,” Simeone said via Spidy Atletico.

The Argentine tactician was particularly enthusiastic about what Lookman brings to his squad.

“He joined the group very quickly, and you could immediately notice his physical strength, his speed, his ability to change the play, and his power in the final third,” Simeone added.

“We hope he can help us in the way he believes he can, and in the way we expect. And obviously, that important partnerships are formed for the good of the team, because that’s what it’s about: bringing good players together.”

Following his official unveiling on Tuesday, where he was handed the number 22 shirt, Lookman expressed his determination to succeed in Spain.

“Proud and excited to start this new chapter. I’m happy to join Atletico de Madrid, a massive club with rich history and passion,” the winger posted on X.

“New city, new challenges, new energy. I’m ready to give everything on the pitch and fight for these colours every time I step out there. Let’s get to work, Aupa.”

Lookman’s move closes the chapter on a productive spell in Italy that saw him register 55 goals and 27 assists across 137 matches for Atalanta over three-and-a-half seasons.