Ademola Lookman sparks transfer battle between Galatasaray and Fenerbahce but Atalanta stand by €50m demand

Lookman has become the centre of a transfer storm in Turkey, with both Galatasaray and Fenerbahce attempting late swoops before the window closes on September 12, according to Sport Mediaset. 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 €55 million (£46m/$60m), though nothing concrete has yet arrived at Atalanta’s headquarters.

Fenerbahce remain in the race too, with both Istanbul giants locked in a battle to lure the Nigerian forward away from Serie A. 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 (£42m/$55m). 

This saga reflects the growing pull of Turkish football, where domestic giants are willing to stretch financial limits for marquee names. The Yellow-Reds’ ambition is clear, they want a strike force that blends local fan appeal with global recognition. The Fenerbahce, meanwhile, cannot afford to lose ground to their rivals, especially after a strong start to the season.

For Atalanta, selling Lookman would mean losing one of their most reliable attacking options, having seen him hit double figures last season. The club’s valuation signals their reluctance to part ways unless the fee reshapes their project. The late interest also underlines how Serie A continues to serve as a marketplace for Turkish clubs eager to bolster squads with proven European talent.

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.

The Nigerian international spent the summer unsettled at Atalanta, but despite speculation, no official approach has yet been lodged. With just over a week left until the Turkish window slams shut, the possibility of Lookman staying in Bergamo until at least January is becoming increasingly realistic.

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. For now, the transfer soap opera continues, with Turkey’s giants still weighing whether to make their decisive move.