
Photo: Nigeria Football Federation
Turkish Super Lig champions Galatasaray have reportedly withdrawn from talks with Italian Serie A club Atalanta over the transfer of Nigerian international forward Ademola Lookman.
Ademola Lookman’s footwork was on another level, and it led straight to the goal. 🤩
Your @RexonaNG Move of the Day. 🇳🇬#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/EjBbmasgbA
— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) December 28, 2025
While Galatasaray made formal inquiries for the star forward, a major disconnect between the two clubs and the player’s representatives over financial details has halted progress. Atalanta have remained firm on a valuation between €40 million and €50 million, citing Lookman’s status as a hero during the club’s 2023-24 UEFA Europa League title run and his current contract, which runs until 2027.
Additionally, the player’s personal wage demands of a €9 million annual salary proved to be a major stumbling block for the “Lions.” According to Türkiye Gazetesi, the Turkish giants found these figures too high and have suspended negotiations for the time being.
Lookman has been linked with a move away from Bergamo since the summer, when he came close to joining Inter Milan. Although personal terms were reportedly agreed upon then, club-to-club discussions fell through leading to a standoff that severely impacted the forward’s performance for his club this season.
The 28-year-old’s production has been limited to 3 goals and 1 assist in 16 matches across all competitions, a notable decline from past seasons.
Galatasaray’s bitter rivals, Fenerbahçe, have also been linked with the forward, who is currently representing Nigeria at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.