Turkish Super Lig heavyweights Fenerbahce are reportedly preparing an opening bid for Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the next season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
According to Italian outlet Sport Mediaset, Fenerbahce are ready to submit a loan offer worth €5 million, with an obligation to make the move permanent for a further €37 million. Discussions between the Turkish club and Atalanta are still at an early stage, with no formal agreement yet in place. Domestic rivals Galatasaray have also been linked with interest in the Nigerian international, setting the stage for a potential transfer battle.
Atalanta are understood to be open to selling Lookman but would prefer a straight permanent transfer rather than a loan-based arrangement. The Serie A side remains keen to maximize value for one of their most influential attacking players.
The former RB Leipzig and Leicester City winger was close to leaving Bergamo last summer, having pushed for a move to Inter Milan. However, the Nerazzurri failed to meet Atalanta’s valuation, forcing Lookman to remain with La Dea for the current campaign.
Lookman is currently away on international duty with Nigeria at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, where he has been in sensational form. The 26-year-old has scored three goals and provided five assists in just three matches, playing a central role in the Super Eagles’ impressive run in the competition and further boosting his profile ahead of a possible big-money transfer.