Lookman to Galatasaray? Super Eagles star responds to Osimhen’s transfer plea

Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has reportedly responded to efforts by fellow Nigerian star Victor Osimhen to convince him to join Turkish champions Galatasaray ahead of the 2026/27 season, Soccernet.ng reports.

Galatasaray are said to be exploring a move for Lookman as they prepare to defend the Süper Lig title they won in the 2025/26 campaign. The Istanbul giants finished top of the league to secure a fourth consecutive championship and a record-extending 26th league crown.

The interest in Lookman comes amid uncertainty over his future at Atlético Madrid. Reports suggest the Spanish side could consider offers despite the Nigerian only arriving in Madrid during the 2026 winter transfer window. Turkish rivals Fenerbahçe remain interested after previously attempting to sign him before his move to Spain.

According to reports from Turkey, Osimhen, who himself is on the radar of Atletico, has personally spoken with his international teammate and encouraged him to choose Galatasaray rather than any other destination. Interestingly, Galatasaray have already reportedly rejected a big-money offer from Atlético Madrid for Osimhen.

Lookman open to move but sets one major condition

The reports by Aspor claim Lookman is not opposed to relocating to Istanbul and teaming up with Osimhen at Galatasaray. However, the 27-year-old has reportedly made it clear that any transfer can only happen if the Turkish champions first reach an agreement with Atlético Madrid.

The Nigerian attacker, who stands at 1.74 metres and is contracted to Atlético until 2030, is believed to have delivered a straightforward message to Galatasaray's hierarchy: “Reach an agreement with my club.”

That response has been interpreted as a positive sign for Galatasaray, who continue to assess the financial feasibility of a deal for a player currently valued at around €40 million.

A partnership between Lookman and Osimhen would instantly become one of the most exciting attacking combinations available to the Turkish champions. The pair already share a strong understanding from their time together with the Nigerian national team, where their movement and link-up play have often troubled opposition defences.

From a tactical standpoint, Lookman's pace, dribbling ability and creativity from wide areas could complement Osimhen's physical presence, aerial strength and finishing inside the penalty area. Such a combination would also provide head coach Okan Buruk with greater flexibility, whether operating with two forwards or using Lookman from the left side in a 4-2-3-1 system.

Despite the excitement surrounding the prospect, significant obstacles remain. Atlético Madrid invested heavily to bring Lookman to Spain and may be reluctant to lose him so soon, particularly with major changes expected within their attacking department. Antoine Griezmann has played his last game for Diego Simeone's men while Julian Alvarez could leave for Barcelona, Real Madrid or Arsenal.

Still, Galatasaray's pursuit appears to depend on whether they can convince Atlético Madrid to negotiate. Lookman, according to the latest reports, has left the door open, but only if the clubs can first find common ground.