Galatasaray have reportedly turned to Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen in their bid to land fellow Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, asking him to help persuade his international teammate to consider a summer switch to Istanbul, The Punch reports
Turkish outlet Fotomac reports that the Turkish champions are keen on signing Lookman from Atlético Madrid, where the 28-year-old has established himself as one of the team’s standout performers since his €35m move from Atalanta in the January transfer window.
In 24 appearances under Diego Simeone, Lookman has registered five goals and four assists, playing a key role in Atlético’s run to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and the Copa del Rey final, including decisive strikes against Barcelona in both competitions.
Galatasaray’s approach to Osimhen as an informal intermediary underscores both the ambition and difficulty of the proposed transfer, with the club hoping his influence could help sway the deal.
However, Atlético Madrid are believed to be strongly reluctant to lose another key player, especially after already parting ways with Antoine Griezmann and amid ongoing discussions involving Julián Álvarez and Alexander Sørloth.
Lookman’s importance to Simeone’s system makes any departure highly complicated, while his salary in Spain is reportedly far above what Galatasaray typically offer, aside from Osimhen’s exceptional €21m-per-year contract.
Bridging that gap would likely require a highly creative financial package.
Osimhen’s strong connection with Galatasaray is well known, having previously expressed admiration for the club and its supporters following his loan spell in the 2024/25 season, before his €75m permanent transfer was completed last summer.
Lookman has previously attracted interest from clubs such as Inter Milan and Fenerbahçe, and has remained on the radar of several European sides.
Whether Galatasaray can structure an offer strong enough to convince Atlético Madrid and whether Osimhen’s involvement can make a difference, remains uncertain, with the deal still considered highly complex.
