Osimhen Factor: Turkish Pundit Tips Galatasaray to Win Ademola Lookman Transfer Race

Turkish football analyst Levent Tüzemen has identified Victor Osimhen as Galatasaray’s biggest weapon in their pursuit of Ademola Lookman, as the January transfer window gathers momentum.

Speaking on the Libero TV YouTube channel, Tüzemen revealed that Galatasaray are actively working behind the scenes to lure the Atalanta forward to Istanbul, with Osimhen playing a key role in the talks.

Lookman, who enjoyed a strong spell with Atalanta, had pushed for a move away from the Serie A side last summer but eventually stayed put. However, renewed interest has now emerged from Turkey, with both Galatasaray and fierce rivals Fenerbahçe reportedly in discussions.

“Victor Osimhen is one of those trying to convince Lookman to transfer to Galatasaray,” Tüzemen said.
“Both Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe are in talks. However, Osimhen is the biggest advantage for Galatasaray.”

Interestingly, both Nigerian stars are currently teammates with the Super Eagles at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, a setting that could further strengthen personal discussions away from club pressure.

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Transfers are often decided by money and project plans, but player relationships can quietly tip the scales. Osimhen and Lookman share not only nationality but also a strong on-field chemistry with Nigeria — something Galatasaray would be keen to replicate at club level.

For Lookman, the prospect of joining a familiar face in a league where Osimhen is already adored could ease adaptation and boost confidence. For Galatasaray, pairing two Nigerian stars at the peak of their powers would be a statement of ambition, both domestically and in Europe.

Still, the decision won’t be purely emotional. Lookman will weigh factors such as playing time, European exposure, and long-term career growth. But if football truly is about trust and timing, then Galatasaray’s Osimhen connection might just be the edge that turns interest into a signature.

As AFCON continues and the transfer window ticks on, this is one storyline Nigerian fans — and Turkish giants — will be watching closely.