Galatasaray’s Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has made a personal appeal to Super Eagles teammate Ademola Lookman to join him at the Turkish club, according to Italian media reports.
The Istanbul-based side are keen on securing the Atalanta forward’s signature as they seek to strengthen their attacking lineup, particularly with Barış Alper Yılmaz expected to depart in January.
Italian press reports, cited by Foot Africa, suggest Osimhen has taken an active role in the potential transfer by reaching out directly to his compatriot.
“Come to Galatasaray and be happy here!” Osimhen reportedly told Lookman during a phone conversation.
The 28-year-old Lookman has endured limited playing time at Atalanta this season following a breakdown in relations with the club’s management over a collapsed move to Inter Milan. Sources indicate he would be willing to make the switch to Turkey if both clubs can agree terms.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year was sidelined during the summer after going on strike and was subsequently frozen out by the club. He made his return with a brief four-minute cameo in Atalanta’s 3-0 victory at Torino in September before earning his first start in the Champions League against Club Brugge shortly after.
Lookman finally broke his scoring drought for the 2025/26 campaign on Tuesday evening, finding the net in Atalanta’s Serie A fixture against AC Milan at home.
The Nigerian equalised in the 35th minute after Italian midfielder Samuele Ricci had given the visitors a fourth-minute lead. Lookman fired a spectacular shot into the top corner after receiving a pass from Mario Pasalic.
It marked his seventh appearance across all competitions for Atalanta this term.
Last season, Lookman was instrumental for the Bergamo outfit, netting 15 goals and providing five assists in Serie A, whilst also contributing five goals and two assists in the Champions League.
