File photo of Nigerian international, Ademola Lookman
Turkish Super Lig giants, Fenerbahce and Galatasaray, are going at each other off the pitch for the signature of Nigeria forward, Ademola Lookman, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Lookman’s future hangs in the balance following the closure of the transfer window in Europe’s top leagues on Monday, with hopes that he could seal his exit from Italy to Turkey, where their transfer window closes September 12.
As Galatasaray and Fenerbahce push for a deal, Atalanta are standing firm on their valuation.
According to reports in Turkey, Galatasaray are particularly determined, as they dream of forming an all-Nigerian frontline by pairing Lookman with Victor Osimhen.
Reports claim they have already explored a deal worth €55m (£46m/$60m), though nothing concrete has yet arrived at Atalanta’s headquarters.
Galatasaray initially pursued a move for Inter’s Hakan Calhanoglu, but talks collapsed after the midfielder decided to stay in Milan. Instead, they turned their attention to Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan, successfully striking a deal, and now Lookman has emerged as their latest target.
Football Italia also reported that Fenerbahce remain in the race too, with both Istanbul giants locked in a battle to lure the Nigerian forward away from Serie A.
According to updates from journalist Orazio Accomando, Fenerbahce have put forward a four-year contract offer worth around €6m per season in wages in an attempt to lure Lookman to Istanbul.
Atalanta, however, are holding their ground. The club have made it clear that Lookman will only leave for a permanent transfer and at a fee north of €50m.
Lookman has been unsettled at Atalanta, training alone after protesting the club’s rejection of an offer from Inter Milan.
The 27-year-old’s future remains unresolved, with Atalanta bracing for potential late bids from Istanbul. If Galatasaray or Fenerbahce fail to table an offer exceeding €50m, the winger is expected to stay in Bergamo and revisit his options in January. (PUNCH)
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