Galatasaray insider Uğur Karakullukçu revealed on December 13, 2025, that the Turkish club is prioritizing a move for Liverpool's Mohamed Salah instead of Atalanta's Ademola Lookman due to prohibitive costs. Club president Dursun Özbek reportedly stated, "Instead of paying Lookman 45 million Euros plus his 10 million Euros salary and taxes, let's go for Mohamed Salah," aiming to secure the Egyptian on a free transfer as his Anfield future remains uncertain.
Lookman's recent resurgence two goals and an assist in four games had revived January interest for a potential reunion with Super Eagles teammate Victor Osimhen, already on loan at Galatasaray. However, the financial burden shifted priorities toward the more attainable Salah target, with prior discussions noted from last season.
This strategic pivot reflects Galatasaray's ambition amid their title defense, balancing marquee signings with budget realities as the window nears.