Ademola Lookman: Galatasaray vs Fenerbahçe Battle Heating Up for January Move

There is growing speculation that Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman could be on the move during the January transfer window, with two Turkish heavyweights Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe reportedly vying for his signature.

Galatasaray have placed Lookman on their January shortlist, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Turkish media suggest that the club may even follow the path used during Victor Osimhen’s move, structuring a January deal with long-term ambition.  According to Fotomaç, Galatasaray are considering a loan move for the 28 year old, making the potential move more viable.

On the other hand, Fenerbahçe are also reported to be in the race. Reports say they have offered Lookman a four-year contract, with wages potentially rising to €6 million per season.

However, the situation remains delicate. Romano has stated that no agreement has yet started, neither with Lookman’s agent nor between Galatasaray and Atalanta. Meanwhile, Atalanta’s decision-making could be complicated: although rumors of a transfer surface, Lookman was recently included in their UEFA Champions League squad — a sign that Atalanta might not be ready to offload him mid-season.

With Lookman’s contract running until June 2027, a permanent move would need to meet Atalanta’s valuation.

Editorial 

What we are witnessing with Ademola Lookman is not merely transfer speculation — it is a moment of strategic ambition for both Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe. These are clubs that understand not just the potential of signing a talented winger, but the message such a signing sends: ambition, intent, and a hunger to dominate.

Galatasaray’s renewed interest feels particularly calculated. The comparisons to the Osimhen deal are not superficial; they hint at a vision that goes beyond a simple winter move. If they can convince Lookman — a player capable of unlocking defences and creating in tight spaces they may not just improve their squad, but reshape it.

Fenerbahçe, meanwhile, offer a different proposition stability, commitment, and a long-term contract. Their reported offer of €6 million per season is not insignificant it suggests they see Lookman as more than a short-term fix, but a cornerstone in their attacking structure.

For Lookman, this is a crossroads. He must weigh the security and financial reward of a long-term Fener contract against the prestige and challenge of joining Galatasaray, where he could align with another Nigerian talent and step into a club with continental and domestic aspirations.

Atalanta, on their end, must decide whether to cash in now or hold on. The lesson here for clubs across Europe is clear: when a player of Lookman’s calibre becomes available, he is not just a transfer — he is a statement.

Did You Know?

1. Galatasaray are reportedly interested in acquiring Lookman through a loan deal, mimicking their approach used in the Osimhen transfer.
2. Fenerbahçe’s contract offer is said to span four years, highlighting their long-term belief in Lookman.
3. Lookman’s current deal with Atalanta runs until June 2027, which gives Atalanta some leverage in negotiations.
4. Despite the transfer talk, Lookman was recently included in Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League squad, suggesting Atalanta are not yet ready to part ways.
5. Galatasaray’s winter interest in Lookman is reportedly connected to their success with Nigerian compatriot Victor Osimhen, whose own move was structured innovatively.