A Weak Arsenal Spot
Arsenal had a good season. They challenged for the Premier League title and played some extremely entertaining football. But there was one aspect that was the problem—the left wing.
Gabriel Martinelli began the season in good form. But he lost his touch. Injuries and inconsistency stopped him dead. Leandro Trossard came in with him, but he’s a utility man. He’s class, but not so much of a winger threat.
With Bukayo Saka stable on the right, the left flank appears to be missing otherwise. Arsenal will need additional threat from that side if they are to emerge as champions. That’s where Ademola Lookman comes into the picture.
Who Is Ademola Lookman?
Ademola Lookman is a 26-year-old Atalanta winger. He was incredible in his season. He netted a phenomenal hat trick in the Europa League final. It was one of the games of the season.
Lookman is quick, agile, and confident. He can beat a defender, cut inside, and score at pace. He can also track back and aid the defense—something Mikel Arteta appreciates in his wingers.
He’d played there previously, naturally, for Everton and Leicester. But in Italy, he really came into his own. Now, he wishes to return to the Premier League.
Frustration in Italy
Even though successful, Lookman is said to be frustrated. He is said to feel underpaid and not valued as much as he feels he ought to be by Atalanta. He feels he should have a bigger role and more money.
They have valued him at €50 million. That demonstrates that they value him—but also restrains other teams from signing him. Lookman is reportedly willing to take the leap if it means he gets to play first-string top-league football.
Arsenal can make the most of this irritation.
Why Arsenal Should Move Quickly
Arsenal requires a quality option down the left. Someone to press Martinelli or, if need be, play in front of him on big days. Lookman provides something different—greater directness, greater pace.
His style of play is suited to Arteta’s. He presses with intensity, is quick in movement, and transfers well with midfielders. He would easily fit into Arsenal’s attack line with Saka and Jesus or Gyökeres.
Also, with Champions League games and a long season to come, depth is vital. Lookman brings quality and experience.
Unless Arsenal moves quickly, other clubs might get in the way. A player of his talent is always going to be desirable.
The €50m Question
The fee is not cheap. €50 million is a lot of money. But in the market nowadays, for a player of his caliber, it is reasonable. Arsenal have paid out more on raw players who are younger than him.
Lookman has already proved he can handle the pressure. His Europa League final hat trick against Bayer Leverkusen, a good team, shows that he can handle the big game.
If Arsenal are serious about resolving their left flank issue, they have to be ready to spend.
Arsenal Fans Require Firepower
Numerous Arsenal supporters confirm that the team requires more firepower on the left. Martinelli is gifted, but he cannot do it all by himself. Injuries and dips in form are football.
Lookman has impressed with his speed and confidence. There are already some who believe he is the ideal fit. He may be brought even more out of himself with a move to Arsenal.
Lookman has Premier League experience, too. He won’t take long to settle. That’s a big positive.
My Take on the Situation
This is a no-brainer for Arsenal in my opinion. Ademola Lookman is ready. He has the experience, the skill, and the hunger. He craves a greater challenge—and Arsenal can provide it to him.
The left wing is a weak link. It’s time to shore it up. Lookman will not be a backup only—he could compete for a starting role. That is healthy competition. It makes everyone play better.
The €50m price tag might look outrageous, but for a match-winner like Lookman, it could be a bargain in the end. Arsenal needs determination, speed, and goals. Lookman provides the three.
If Arsenal are serious about remaining in the title race, they have to move quickly. It is a golden opportunity.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
