Fenerbahce prepare first offer for Atalanta & Nigeria star Lookman

Fenerbahce are stepping up their pursuit of Ademola Lookman and are preparing an opening bid for the Atalanta forward as they look to land another high-profile signing in January.

According to Sport Mediaset journalist Orazio Accomando, the Turkish club are ready to table an offer structured as a paid loan worth €5 million, with a right, or potential obligation, to buy set at €37 million.

Talks are still at an early stage, but Fenerbahce have identified Lookman as a priority target to strengthen their attack.

Atalanta, however, would prefer a permanent transfer rather than a temporary solution.

The Bergamo-based club value Lookman highly following his performances in Serie A and Europe and are reluctant to accept a deal that delays a full sale unless the conditions are particularly favourable.

The Nigeria international, currently at the African Cup of Nations, remains a key figure for Atalanta, but interest from abroad has continued to grow, with Fenerbahce now pushing to test the club’s stance.

It comes after a summer that saw the former Fulham man heavily linked with a move to Inter Milan, even going as so far as to try and force a move away from the club. However, Inter refused to meet Atalanta’s demands and the player stayed in Bergamo.

Any progress is likely to depend on whether the Turkish side are willing to convert their proposal into a straight transfer or include an obligation to buy under achievable conditions.

For now, negotiations have not yet entered an advanced phase, but Fenerbahce’s willingness to commit significant funds suggests the situation could develop quickly in the coming days.