Nigeria Players Abroad
Rumour Mill: Galatasaray table mega offer to tempt Ademola Lookman from Atalanta
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
The transfer saga surrounding Ademola Lookman is far from settled, with reports in Turkey suggesting Galatasaray are preparing a late push to lure the Nigerian winger away from Atalanta with a lucrative salary package.
Although the major European transfer window has closed, the Turkish Super Lig market remains open until September 12, giving Galatasaray room to manoeuvre. Local media indicate the Istanbul giants are weighing up a big-money bid to meet Atalanta’s valuation.
A move would pave the way for a tantalising all-Nigerian attacking partnership with Victor Osimhen, a prospect already stirring excitement among the Galatasaray faithful.
Atalanta, however, have so far resisted letting Lookman join a direct Serie A rival. Inter Milan saw at least three bids turned down during the summer, despite the forward’s desire to switch clubs.
The 26-year-old remains frozen out in Bergamo, training separately from the main squad and yet to feature this season after helping La Dea clinch their first-ever European title with the 2023 UEFA Europa League triumph.
Reports in Turkey suggest a €55 million package is under discussion, though no formal bid has been tabled. For now, the likeliest outcome appears to be Lookman staying put until at least January, unless Galatasaray accelerate negotiations in the coming days.