Galatasaray insider Süleyman Rodop has criticized the club's hierarchy for failing to secure the signing of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman during the January transfer window, revealing that he made multiple calls urging executives to complete the deal. 

Lookman, who eventually moved to Spain and now plays at the Wanda Metropolitano, delivered a standout performance on Thursday, scoring once and providing an assist in Atletico Madrid's emphatic 4-0 victory over Barcelona.

Before sealing his move to the Spanish capital, the Nigerian international had been strongly linked with a switch to Galatasaray. 

However, it was arch-rivals Fenerbahçe who came closest to landing the former Atalanta star, only for the deal to collapse after they failed to provide the required bank guarantee despite reaching an agreement with the Italian club. 

Rodop, speaking after Lookman's impressive display, praised his performance and insisted the Yellow-Reds missed a golden opportunity to secure a title-defining signing.

"Lookman went right through Barcelona. I've lost count of how many times," Rodop was quoted as saying by habersarikirmizi.

"I called the executives during the transfer window, begging them, 'Sign this guy, and the championship will be guaranteed.'"

He added that Galatasaray should consider themselves fortunate that Fenerbahçe were unable to finalize the transfer at the last minute.

"They should be thankful that Fenerbahçe couldn't provide the guarantee letter at the last minute," he said.

Since his move to Spain, Lookman has maintained his scintillating form, registering two goals and two assists in just three appearances across all competitions. 

Adeyemi Adewale