Lookman Eyes Arsenal Switch as Gunners Reignite Transfer Talks

Ademola Lookman is reportedly interested in a move to Arsenal, with the North London club reopening discussions with Atalanta over a potential summer transfer for the Nigerian international.

The 26-year-old winger, currently the reigning African Footballer of the Year, is keen on returning to the Premier League following earlier stints with Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City. Arsenal are believed to be leading the race for his signature.

According to CaughtOffside, the Gunners have entered into talks with the Serie A side, with Atalanta valuing the player between £38m and £42m. Additional reports from AFTV indicate that Arsenal have already made direct contact with Lookman in a bid to bolster their attacking options.

Arsenal Seek Attacking Reinforcements
With ambitions to challenge for major honours next season, Arsenal are aiming for a productive transfer window. Despite boasting one of the most solid defences in Europe over the past two seasons, Mikel Arteta’s side have struggled for consistency in the final third.

While the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard have contributed, questions remain over the club’s depth and quality in attack. The need for an elite left-winger and a clinical forward has become increasingly evident, especially as rivals continue to strengthen their squads with top-tier talent.

Lookman has emerged as a standout performer in Europe since joining Atalanta, tallying 52 goals and 25 assists in 118 appearances. His most notable performance came in the 2024 UEFA Europa League final, where he netted a historic hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen to help Atalanta lift their first-ever European trophy — the first hat-trick in a Europa League final.

While Arsenal remain the frontrunners, they face competition from several top European clubs including Juventus, Napoli, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Barcelona. However, the former Charlton Athletic player is believed to favour a return to England, where he began his professional career and maintains strong personal ties.

Atalanta are reportedly open to selling Lookman this summer, with two years left on his current contract. The Italian club are expected to demand around €60 million for their star man.