Atletico Madrid Plot Improved Bid for Fulham’s Alex Iwobi

Atletico Madrid are set to step up their pursuit of Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi after their initial £21.5m offer was turned down by the Premier League club, Sport360 Nigeria has gathered.

The Spanish side, who have been active in the summer transfer market, are looking to bolster Diego Simeone’s squad ahead of the new campaign. Recent additions include Alex Baena and Matteo Ruggeri, with American midfielder Johnny Cardoso also on the verge of joining from Real Betis.

Despite Fulham’s firm stance on Iwobi’s availability, Atletico remain undeterred. Reports from Africafoot via Diario AS indicate that the La Liga outfit are preparing an improved bid in the region of €25m to tempt the Cottagers into negotiations.

The initial offer, which included a four-year contract worth approximately £115,000 a week, was swiftly rebuffed by Fulham, who regard the Nigerian international as a vital component of Marco Silva’s squad. The club had secured his services from Everton for £22m in September 2023.

Iwobi, 29, has flourished at Craven Cottage and quickly established himself as a fan favourite. In the 2024/25 season, he delivered nine goals and six assists in the Premier League, bringing his total contributions in a Fulham shirt to 15 goals and eight assists in 77 appearances.

Atletico’s interest in the Super Eagles star is partly driven by a need to strengthen their midfield options, particularly on the left, following the exit of Rodrigo Riquelme and the potential departure of Conor Gallagher. While new recruit Baena and Samuel Lino offer depth, Iwobi’s ability to play across midfield and on both wings makes him an ideal fit for Simeone’s system.

A product of Arsenal’s academy, Iwobi brings not only Premier League experience but also considerable international pedigree, having earned 80 caps and scored 10 goals for Nigeria. He played a key role in the Super Eagles’ run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

With three years remaining on his Fulham contract, the West London side hold a strong negotiating position, but Atletico’s persistence suggests that a fresh approach could be imminent.