Inter Milan Move Ahead in Race for Lookman as Osimhen Nears Galatasaray Switch
With two years remaining on his current contract at Atalanta, Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has emerged as one of the hottest targets of the summer transfer window. The Bergamo-based club are reportedly open to offers, with an initial asking price set at €60 million.
Initially, Juventus and Napoli were seen as front-runners in the race to land the Super Eagles star. However, Inter Milan, under new manager Christian Chivu, have surged ahead in the pursuit.
Lookman’s pace, versatility, and strong defensive work rate have made him a prime candidate in Inter’s attacking rebuild. With Lautaro Martínez set to remain the focal point in attack, Lookman is expected to complement the Argentine forward perfectly, providing width, directness, and pressing ability that fits Chivu’s evolving tactical system.
Meanwhile, the future of fellow Nigerian international Victor Osimhen is expected to become clearer by the weekend. According to Italian outlet Il Mattino, the striker has not reported to Napoli’s pre-season training camp, having submitted a medical certificate to justify his absence. He is currently training individually and is anticipated to depart for Istanbul by the weekend—even if the final paperwork is still pending.
Il Mattino further reports that Galatasaray are keen to finalize the transfer “as soon as possible.” The Turkish champions have reportedly agreed to Napoli’s condition barring the sale of Osimhen to any other Italian club for the next three years.
However, a sticking point remains over Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis’ demand for a 20% sell-on clause, which would entitle the Serie A side to a portion of any future transfer fee should Galatasaray sell Osimhen down the line.
As both deals evolve, Nigerian football fans will be watching closely to see how two of their brightest stars shape the narrative of European football this season.
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