Why Tottenham’s Decision to Ignore Ademola Lookman Is Backfiring Badly

Why Tottenham’s Decision to Ignore Ademola Lookman Is Backfiring Badly

New revelations have clarified why Tottenham Hotspur and Galatasaray failed to secure Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman during the winter transfer window, a decision now widely viewed as costly as Spurs battle a deepening relegation crisis.

Despite Lookman being offered to Tottenham twice—in the summer and again in January—the North London club opted for caution. Spurs’ hierarchy, then operating under Thomas Frank, chose not to proceed, even as injuries ravaged the squad.

At the time, Tottenham were without key attackers including Richarlison, Mohammed Kudus, and Dominic Solanke. Yet Sporting Director Johan Lange defended the club’s inactivity, insisting Spurs would not pursue “quick fixes” in the transfer market.

That stance has since drawn criticism, especially given what followed.

Instead of signing the CAF Player of the Year, Spurs spent nearly €40 million on Conor Gallagher from Atlético Madrid—a move that inadvertently gave the Spanish giants the financial flexibility and squad space to sign Lookman on February 1.

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Since arriving in Spain, Lookman has flourished under Diego Simeone, quickly becoming a driving force in Atlético’s attack. In just seven appearances, the Nigerian forward has recorded four goals and two assists, including a Man of the Match display in a crushing 4–0 Copa del Rey victory over Barcelona.

While Tottenham continue to struggle for goals and consistency, Lookman’s impact has underlined what Spurs may have missed.

Galatasaray also came close but ultimately failed in their pursuit. Super-agent George Gardi, the architect of Victor Osimhen’s move to Istanbul, confirmed attempts to replicate the same loan-plus-option formula for Lookman.

According to Gardi, the deal collapsed twice—first because Lookman preferred to remain in Italy during the summer, and later because Atalanta’s valuation skyrocketed in January, placing the transfer beyond Galatasaray’s reach.

With daunting fixtures against Liverpool, Chelsea, and Aston Villa on the horizon, Spurs now face a defining stretch of the season.

For many supporters, what was presented as market discipline now feels like a surrender—one that could threaten Tottenham’s 48-year stay in the top flight.

As Ademola Lookman continues to shine on Europe’s biggest stages, both Tottenham and Galatasaray are left confronting a harsh reality: passing on a proven match-winner may prove impossible to undo.

Why Tottenham’s Decision to Ignore Ademola Lookman Is Backfiring Badly