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Galatasaray joins race for Atalanta's Lookman amid Fenerbahce's interest

Nigeria's forward #09 Victor Osimhen celebrates his goal with Nigeria's forward #07 Ademola Lookman during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) quarter-final football match between Algeria and Nigeria at the Grand stadium in Marrakesh, January 10, 2026. (AFP Photo)
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Nigeria's forward #09 Victor Osimhen celebrates his goal with Nigeria's forward #07 Ademola Lookman during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) quarter-final football match between Algeria and Nigeria at the Grand stadium in Marrakesh, January 10, 2026. (AFP Photo)
January 14, 2026 03:32 PM GMT+03:00

Istanbul club Galatasaray has reportedly opened talks with Atalanta to sign Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman, with the club’s vice president currently in Italy to lead negotiations, according to reports.

The Yellow-Red club is also monitoring AC Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana, after talks for Raphael Onyedika and Manuel Ugarte stalled, as it seeks to reinforce its midfield in an effort to sustain its European campaign.

Galatasaray weighs loan-with-obligation deal for Lookman

Galatasaray is reportedly holding ongoing talks with both Lookman’s representatives and his current club Atalanta, with plans to structure the transfer as a loan deal that includes an obligation to buy, Turkish outlet Sozcu reported.

While no agreement has been reached yet, the player's future remains under active negotiation. Earlier reports linking Fenerbahce to the winger suggested that Atalanta values him at no less than €45 million.

Lookman remains under contract with Atalanta until June 2027, with his market value listed at €35 million on Transfermarkt. However, the Italian club’s recent acquisition of Giacomo Raspadori from Atletico Madrid could pave the way for the Nigerian winger’s departure.

During this season, Lookman has appeared in 16 matches, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist.

AC Milan's French midfielder #19 Youssouf Fofana reacts during the Italian Serie A football match between AC Milan and Genoa at San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, January 8, 2025. (AFP Photo)
AC Milan's French midfielder #19 Youssouf Fofana reacts during the Italian Serie A football match between AC Milan and Genoa at San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, January 8, 2025. (AFP Photo)

Fofana emerges as priority target for Galatasaray

On the other hand, Galatasaray’s most serious pursuit appears to be aimed at Youssouf Fofana, as the club seeks an immediate addition to strengthen its midfield. While negotiations are still ongoing, the Lions are expected to submit a €25 million offer for the French international.

Fofana, 27, has featured in 20 matches this season, scoring once and assisting twice. He is under contract with AC Milan until 2028 and is valued at €28 million.

Following a Türkiye Cup match this week, Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk confirmed that the club is seeking reinforcements for the January transfer window, emphasizing its commitment to signing high-quality players without financial hesitation.

"When you target elite players, negotiations can take time. We will bring new names into the squad," he said. "There is no financial limitation, important players will come to Galatasaray."

Galatasaray, the reigning champion of the past three Turkish Super Lig seasons, currently leads the league with a 3-point advantage over archrival Fenerbahce. In the UEFA Champions League, the club sits 18th in the overall standings with 9 points.

January 14, 2026 03:33 PM GMT+03:00
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