Fulham Turn Down £21.5m Bid from Atletico Madrid for Iwobi > 자유게시판

Fulham have formally rejected a £21.5 million offer from Atletico Madrid for Nigerian international Alex Iwobi, sources close to the Premier League outfit confirm. The Cottagers view the 29 year old midfielder as integral to Marco Silva’s plans for the upcoming season. The deal included a possible four year contract worth around £115,000 per week.

Iwobi, who joined Fulham from Everton in September 2023, remains contracted until 2028 after a £22 million move. In two seasons, he has made 77 appearances, scoring 15 goals and providing eight assists across all competitions. In the 2024/25 Premier League campaign alone, he registered nine goals and six assists.

Atletico Madrid were looking to strengthen their midfield following a La Liga campaign that ended in third place. They proposed a bid although Fulham swiftly moved to dismiss it, reaffirming that Iwobi is not for sale. On the international stage, Iwobi continues to be a vital player for the Super Eagles, racking up 80 caps and 10 goals. He featured in Nigeria’s run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Editorial

We commend Fulham’s decision to retain Alex Iwobi, whose influence transcends mere statistics. His adaptability able to play centrally or wide provides Marco Silva with valuable tactical flexibility. Rejecting a substantial bid suggests that the club isn’t merely guarding assets they’re building a cohesive unit geared towards European ambition.

Iwobi’s Premier League performances, especially his nine goals and six assists this season, strengthened Fulham’s push for a top-half finish. His presence forms part of a spine that promises stability both on and off the pitch. Rather than selling an asset during a transition phase, Fulham have signalled their intent to evolve and compete.

The interest from Atletico Madrid underscores Iwobi’s quality and rising stock. Yet, keeping him aligns with Fulham’s broader strategy invest in players who blend experience with hunger. This mindset has powered their recent impact and positions them well for the challenges ahead.

By valuing team chemistry over short-term gain, Fulham are sending a message to fans and rivals alike: they are no longer a stepping stone, but serious contenders. If this bid signals the beginning of a new era of ambition, then retaining Iwobi is the ideal first step.

Did You Know?

1. 
   
2. Iwobi has been a Fulham player since September 2023, signing a contract running until 2028.
   
   
3. He set a new record in April 2024 by becoming the Nigerian with the most Premier League minutes, surpassing Mikel Obi.
   
   
4. Before joining Fulham, he was Everton’s Players’ Player of the Season for 2022–23.
   
   
5. In December 2024, Iwobi released his debut rap single "Don't Shoot" under the stage name "17".
   
   
6. Alex Iwobi is the nephew of Nigerian football legend Jay‑Jay Okocha.