Fenerbahçe are ‘working hard' to line up a decisive winter boost as they chase the Super Lig title, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Turkish giants are determined to complete the signing of Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman in time to tilt the balance against Victor Osimhen’s Galatasaray.
Unbeaten after 19 league games and level with their rivals on goals scored (43), Fenerbahçe still trail the champions by three points. The margins are fine, but the context is unforgiving: Galatasaray have lifted the last three titles and are again powered by Osimhen, last season’s top scorer.
Lookman is viewed by Fenerbahçe as the attacking piece that could turn parity into advantage, domestically and in Europe.
There is also a layer of rivalry to the pursuit. Galatasaray were linked with Lookman last summer, and a successful move to Fenerbahçe would not only strengthen one contender but directly weaken the other’s options. The 28-year-old’s pace, direct running and versatility across the front line are seen as ideal tools for a title run-in that promises little room for error.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has outlined the intensity of Fenerbahçe’s efforts, revealing that talks are being driven from Italy.
He said on his YouTube channel: “Fenerbahçe in Turkey are working hard to sign Ademola Lookman. The club are pushing, with their director currently in Italy to negotiate with Atalanta and the player’s agents.”
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Fenerbahçe – Atalanta talks in Italy
Romano added that the push reflects renewed intent after elite European interest last summer failed to prise the winger away from Bergamo.
“Fenerbahçe are really trying to make it happen. You will remember that last summer Inter and Bayern Munich tried, with some Italian and English clubs also keen, but Atalanta eventually decided to keep Ademola Lookman.”
This time, the door appears ajar.
“Now Fenerbahçe are trying again to sign Lookman. Negotiations are ongoing with both the player and Atalanta, who are not closing the door to this possibility,” Romano explained, before stressing the conditions.
“Atalanta could consider this option if Fenerbahçe reach an agreement with the player and submit a good financial offer, so talks are ongoing.”
Lookman has been linked with a move for months after Atalanta blocked a summer exit following three impressive seasons. That decision has coincided with a slower start this campaign, three goals and two assists in 19 appearances. Lookman's contract also runs out at the end of next season which has sharpened, Atalanta’s need to act.
Valued at around €35m by Transfermarkt, and with reports suggesting a reduced asking price, a permanent deal is the likeliest route; a loan is unlikely to be accepted. For Fenerbahçe, whose spending power has grown alongside the Super Lig’s rising profile, the fee is considered achievable.
If concluded before the deadline, the move would set up a compelling subplot to the title race: Lookman arriving to challenge Osimhen’s dominance—and perhaps finally swing the balance of power in Istanbul.
