Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe set for january battle as Lookman pushes for Atalanta exit again

Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe are gearing up for a high-stakes transfer showdown in January as both Turkish giants intensify their pursuit of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, Sport360NG reports.

The 28-year-old’s relationship with Atalanta has reportedly deteriorated in recent months, following the club’s refusal to sanction a summer move to Inter Milan. Inter were prepared to pay €45m for the winger, but Atalanta held out for €50m, a stance that is believed to have angered the player.

Lookman’s frustrations have since escalated. He briefly left a training session and walked out of the club’s facility before later returning to the squad. Tensions also spilled over publicly during a Champions League tie against Marseille on November 5, when he was involved in a heated touchline confrontation with then-manager Ivan Juric. Although Juric has since been sacked, the episode has not eased the player’s discontent.

With a contract running until June 2027, Atalanta retain a strong bargaining position, but Lookman is understood to be pushing for a move. The club, however, may be reluctant to sell in January, particularly as the winger will join Nigeria for the Africa Cup of Nations later in December.

Interest in the former RB Leipzig and Leicester City forward extends beyond Turkey. Atletico Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur, both of whom explored deals in the summer, are expected to return with renewed proposals in January, according to Teamtalk.

Meanwhile, Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe have intensified their efforts. Galatasaray see Lookman as a marquee signing who could potentially form a partnership with Super Eagles teammate Victor Osimhen. Fenerbahçe, long-time admirers, made an approach shortly after the close of the Italian transfer window, though Atalanta immediately rejected the bid.

Yet some within the Galatasaray hierarchy are reportedly cautious. Turkish football journalist Burhan Can Terzi has claimed the club’s decision-makers have concerns about Lookman’s recent form.

“Galatasaray’s football management has some concerns regarding Lookman’s recent performances. His displays in recent matches haven’t been well-received. Galatasaray might pursue another option ahead of Lookman,” Terzi said via Turkish outlet Forza Climbom on X.

Lookman, who delivered 15 goals and five assists last season in Bergamo, has struggled for consistency this term, scoring only once in seven Serie A appearances, a notable dip after three straight seasons of double-digit goals.

New Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino is expected to reintegrate the winger, but the club will monitor his performances and attitude closely before deciding whether to reopen transfer talks.

Galatasaray remain favourites should Atalanta agree to negotiate, amid reports the Istanbul side have put forward a lucrative €9m-per-year offer. Lookman is said to be open to the move, and particularly excited by the possibility of linking up with Osimhen as Galatasaray look to build a Nigerian-led attacking front at Rams Park.