Arsenal have identified Nigerian international Ademola Lookman as a key transfer target ahead of the summer window, with the Atalanta forward attracting interest following a standout campaign in Serie A.
Lookman, 27, has enjoyed a prolific season in Italy under Gian Piero Gasperini, recording 13 goals and five assists across 28 league matches.
His influence has extended beyond domestic competition, with a total of 18 goals and six assists in 37 appearances in all competitions this season.
After three successful years in Bergamo, Lookman’s departure now appears increasingly likely, with several Premier League giants monitoring his situation.
Reports from Tribuna suggest that Arsenal are not alone in their pursuit, with Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle all keeping tabs on the former RB Leipzig and Leicester City player.
Arsenal’s interest signals their intent to bolster their attacking options, and Lookman’s profile aligns well with manager Mikel Arteta’s emphasis on pace, directness and tactical versatility.
The Gunners, who narrowly missed out on silverware last season, are looking to sharpen their frontline for another push at major honours.
However, securing the Nigerian’s signature is expected to come at a significant cost. Atalanta have reportedly placed a price tag of between €60 million and €65 million on the forward, a valuation that could present challenges for some interested parties.
While Arsenal are believed to be prepared to invest, such a fee could complicate negotiations, especially with other big clubs circling.
Should Arsenal succeed in acquiring Lookman, the move could spell the end of their long-running interest in Spain international Nico Williams of Athletic Club.
Williams, also known for his speed and flair on the wing, has been linked with a move to north London in recent months, but Lookman’s advanced talks could shift the club’s transfer priorities.
The growing interest in Lookman comes amid a resurgence in his career since joining Atalanta. After earlier spells at Everton, Fulham and Leipzig, the Nigerian has transformed into a consistent threat in Italy’s top flight.
Notably, he has netted 50 goals in 115 appearances for the Serie A side, a tally that includes a memorable hat-trick in last season’s Europa League final triumph over Bayer Leverkusen, a performance that further elevated his reputation on the continental stage.
Arsenal’s summer transfer activity will likely hinge on departures as well, with a number of fringe players expected to leave the Emirates.
Lookman’s versatility, able to play on either wing or in a central attacking role, makes him an attractive proposition for Arteta’s evolving system.
As competition intensifies, the coming weeks could prove pivotal in determining whether Arsenal are able to outmanoeuvre their Premier League rivals to land one of Africa’s most in-form forwards.
For Lookman, the potential return to English football would mark a new chapter in a career that has gained fresh momentum in Italy and one that could soon light up the Premier League once again.
