Arsenal has restarted their pursuit of Ademola Lookman. Lookman, the 27-year-old forward is now thriving at Atalanta. Their interest comes after the bids from Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid, and Juventus. As Lookman’s increasing profile in European transfer markets would testify.
Lookman’s Peak Form
Lookman joined Atalanta in August 2022. He has proved to be an irreplaceable attacking talent. In the season 2024–25, he scored 20 goals and gave 7 assists across 40 games. This followed by a thrilling hat trick in the Europa League final. This secured Atalanta’s 3rd place in Serie A and Champions League qualification.
This explosion of form earned him the 2024 African Player of the Year. He completed his rise from Premier League loanee to continental superstar. He’s now valued at €50–60 million, Atalanta’s firm asking price.
Premier League Ready
After inspiring stints at Everton, Fulham, and Leicester, Lookman never quite established himself in England. Rather, he is a graceful player today with elite European experience and impressive numbers. He scored 52 goals and 25 assists in 118 games for Atalanta.
Above all, Arsenal’s scouts view his disparate experience. This spread from the Premier League and Bundesliga to Serie A and Europa League—as an actual asset.
Lookman : Tactical Fit for Arsenal
Mikel Arteta desires dynamic strikers who press, link play, and score. Lookman fits all those criteria. Capable of playing on either flank or as a centre-forward, he fits so naturally into Arsenal’s high-pressing, fluid front line.
His European origin, versatility, positional interchangeability, and tactically aware understanding are all adapted perfectly to Arsenal’s configuration. He offers a skillset that complements their existing priorities: pace, pressing, creativity, and goal threat.
Market Setting & Competition
Atalanta are firm on their €50–60 million price. This would be around £43–50 million. He has already turned down a €40 million bid from Inter Milan. Arsenal want to meet the valuation without breaking their budget and may offer a player-plus-cash deal. They’re also waiting to see if other bids arrive.
Inter Milan and Atlético Madrid remain keen on Lookman. Reports say Inter’s sporting directors are pushing for the move. Lookman is open to returning to the Premier League but hasn’t ruled out other European clubs.
Ex-Arsenal striker Ian Wright supports the move, calling it “unfinished business” and praising Lookman’s growth. Still, some at Arsenal have concerns about his age, seeing him as already in his peak.
What This Move Would Imply for Lookman
1.Instant Impact & Depth.
Lookman would offer cover up and down the frontline. Ideal for rotation in tense Premier League and Champions League matches.
2. Pressure on Existing Starters.
His presence would get Martinelli, Jesus, Havertz, and others onto the pitch more often.
3. Smarter, Value-Oriented Approach.
As an practical purchase, Lookman is less flashy than a player like Rodrygo. But he offers a solid, productive Plan B if priority targets fail.
4. Minimized Integration Risk.
He has extensive Premier League and international experience. His transfer to Arsenal would be smoother than a pure foreign acquisition.
What to Watch
• Bid Lodged?.
Arsenal is purportedly drawing up an official bid. Player-plus-cash deal is under discussion.
• What will Atalanta’s reaction ?.
Will they hold firm at €50–60 million, or hold out for the right deal?
• Other Suitors.
Inter Milan, Atletico, Juventus, and Liverpool still remain in the hunt. Arsenal needs to act fast to recruit him.
• What could the future moves be?.
Either way, a decision could free up cash and momentum for other prospects like Eberechi Eze or Benjamin Sesko.
Bottom Line
Arsenal’s renewed pursuit of Lookman highlights their smart transfer strategy. It balances experience, value, and versatility. If the move goes through, Lookman would offer instant impact. He fits their pressing, fluid style while adding depth and flexibility. It’s a low-risk, high-reward option.
Wait and watch—this could be a quiet yet crucial piece in Arteta’s 2025–26 puzzle.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
