Ademola Lookman’s Transfer Saga: Fenerbahce Emerges as Preferred Destination

Lookman’s Career Uncertainty and Recent Performance

The Nigerian international and Super Eagles forward, Ademola Lookman, has officially expressed his desire to move to Turkish side Fenerbahce this January, according to reports from Soccernet.ng. Over the past year, Lookman’s career trajectory has been clouded by transfer uncertainties. A high-profile move to Inter Milan last summer collapsed after Atalanta, his current club, vetoed the transfer.

This unsettled situation has seemingly impacted Lookman’s form on the pitch. In the ongoing season, he has managed to net three goals and provide two assists in 19 appearances across all competitions, a dip compared to his previous output.

European Interest Intensifies: Fenerbahce vs Atletico Madrid

Despite the challenges, Lookman remains a sought-after talent across Europe. This transfer window has seen a tug-of-war between Turkish giants Fenerbahce and Spanish powerhouse Atletico Madrid, both eager to secure his signature. Negotiations with Atalanta are ongoing, but no definitive agreement has been reached yet.

Transfer insider Nicolo Schira has revealed that Lookman has made his preference clear, opting to join Fenerbahce over Atletico Madrid. The Turkish club has reportedly tabled an impressive offer, proposing a lucrative four-year contract worth €9 million annually-equivalent to approximately ₦16 billion per year-doubling his current earnings at Atalanta.

“Ademola #Lookman has reiterated to #Atalanta his willingness to leave and join #Fenerbahçe, with a total agreement for a 4-year contract (€9M/year). The Turkish winter transfer window closes on February 6, and Fenerbahce are confident of completing the deal.”

— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) January 31, 2026

Financial Hurdles: Transfer Fee Remains a Stumbling Block

While personal terms between Lookman and Fenerbahce have been agreed upon, the primary obstacle remains the transfer fee demanded by Atalanta. Initially, the Italian club valued the former Everton winger at €50 million last summer. However, due to a decline in his recent performances, his market value has dropped to around €35 million.

Atalanta’s insistence on a substantial transfer fee will heavily influence where Lookman ends up. Atletico Madrid remains a serious contender but must present a competitive offer to outbid the Turkish side.

Negotiation Dynamics and Transfer Window Deadline

Fenerbahce currently holds a slight advantage in the transfer talks, as the Turkish winter window remains open until February 6, providing them with additional time to finalize terms. This extended period could prove decisive in persuading Atalanta to accept their offer and secure Lookman’s services.

As the clock ticks down, all eyes will be on the negotiations, with the Super Eagles forward’s next chapter hanging in the balance.