Lookman: How Atletico Madrid’s stance could impact Galatasaray transfer plans

Atletico Madrid have reached a decision on the future of Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman amid transfer interest ahead of the summer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigerian international has been the subject of speculation in recent months, with Turkish champions Galatasaray reportedly keen on signing him as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of next season.

Lookman only joined Atletico Madrid during the winter transfer window in a deal worth around €35 million from Italian side Atalanta and made an immediate impact with performances that justified Atletico’s investment.

The 28-year-old scored nine goals and provided four assists for Los Rojiblancos, including three goals in the Copa del Rey. He also found the net in the final before he was forced off through injury, with Atletico eventually losing to Real Sociedad on penalties.

Atletico Madrid take firm stance on Lookman’s future

According to reports from Footy-Africa, Atletico Madrid have ruled out a sale of Ademola Lookman this summer despite interest from several clubs, particularly Galatasaray and Fenerbahce.

The two Turkish giants have reportedly been monitoring the Nigerian forward and were expected to battle for his signature during the transfer window. 

Fenerbahce attempted to sign Lookman earlier in the year and even agreed personal terms with the Super Eagles star, although Atletico Madrid eventually won the race for his signature. Galatasaray, meanwhile, have continued to show interest as they seek to bolster their attacking options.

Despite joining Atletico only a few months ago, there had been reports that he could leave the club this summer due to concerns about how well he fits into Diego Simeone’s tactical system. 

However, the Copa del Rey finalists are not considering any move for the Nigerian and view him as an important part of their plans moving forward, especially after the departure of Antoine Griezmann at the end of last season.

What this means for Galatasaray

Atletico Madrid’s stance represents a major blow for Galatasaray, who had identified Lookman as one of their top targets for the summer transfer window.

Galatasaray have won four consecutive Turkish Super Lig titles, but they are eager to establish themselves as a stronger force in European competition and were interested in signing Lookman as an ideal addition given his quality and ability to deliver in big matches.

The Turkish champions reached the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 last season and are aiming for a deeper run in the coming campaign, while also maintaining their dominance in the league. 

The Cimbom were also hoping to reunite Lookman with countryman Victor Osimhen, hoping the pair can replicate their understandings at the national level at the club. 

With Atletico Madrid unwilling to entertain offers, Galatasaray will now be forced to pursue alternative targets. They have already been linked with French forward Randal Kolo Muani, as well as Marcus Rashford, and will now step up their pursuit of both players.

For now, Lookman appears set to remain at Atletico Madrid and enter his first full season with the club, where he will be hoping to help Los Rojiblancos challenge Barcelona and Real Madrid for the La Liga title next season.