Fenerbahce have intensified their interest in Ademola Lookman and are lining up an opening offer for the Atalanta forward as they look to land another marquee signing in the January transfer window, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
According to Sport Mediaset journalist Orazio Accomando, the Istanbul giants are preparing a bid structured as a €5m paid loan, with an option or possible obligation to buy valued at €37m, taking the total package to €42m.
“Fenerbahce are continuing to closely follow Ademola Lookman’s situation. The Turkish club are getting ready to submit an offer for a €5m paid loan, with a purchase option or obligation set at €37m,” the report stated.
While talks are still at an early stage, Lookman has emerged as a key target for Fenerbahce as they seek to bolster their attacking firepower.
Atalanta, however, are understood to favour a straight sale rather than a temporary deal. “Atalanta would prefer a permanent transfer, although developments remain possible,” Sport Mediaset added.
The Serie A side place a high value on Lookman after his impressive displays in domestic and European competitions and are reluctant to agree to any arrangement that delays a full transfer unless the conditions are deemed highly favourable.
Despite being a central figure at Atalanta, speculation over the Nigerian’s future has continued to gather pace, with Fenerbahce now ready to test the club’s stance.
Lookman is currently away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he has been one of Nigeria’s standout performers, registering three goals and four assists as the Super Eagles chase a fourth continental title. His performances have also put him firmly in the conversation for the tournament’s most valuable player award.
Interest in the winger comes after a summer in which he was strongly linked with a move to Inter Milan. Reports at the time suggested Lookman was open to leaving Bergamo, but Inter were unable to meet Atalanta’s asking price, forcing him to remain with the club.
Any progress in negotiations is likely to depend on whether Fenerbahce are prepared to turn their proposal into an outright transfer or include a mandatory purchase clause on terms acceptable to Atalanta.
