Arsenal are expected to sign a versatile attacker in this summer's transfer window with Ademola Lookman now an option, according to a new report. The former Everton and Leicester City star is expected to leave Atalanta following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.
It has been another strong season for himself and Atalanta with Gian Piero Gasperini's side sitting third in the Serie A table while Lookman has hit 25 goal contributions in all competitions. Seven of those have come in the Champions League but it was in that tournament where his future was seemingly decided.
During their play-off clash against Club Brugge, he missed a decisive penalty in the 5-2 aggregate defeat which saw Gasperini describe him as “one of the worst penalty kick takers” he had ever seen.
Following that, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed the plan remained for the 27-year-old to leave with his contract expiring in the summer of 2027. Manchester United, Juventus, Atletico Madrid and Liverpool have been linked with Arsenal revealed as the latest club to join the race for his signature.
According to Sky Sports Germany's Florian Plettenberg, the Nigeria international has been added to the Gunners' transfer shortlist.
Capable of playing in a number of positions, Lookman would be a great addition to Arteta's squad given his versatility and what he could potentially bring out in others.
Both Kai Havertz and Mikel Merino have had their critics since joining for £65million and £31million, respectively, however Lookman could help get the best out of the duo.
As evidenced by how successful they have been as vocal points, having Lookman making those runs beyond the last man into the attacking third could significantly help their direct goal contributions with the Atalanta star having proven he is an elite-level finisher.
Given his exit stance, he could also be available at a fairly low price and that could help sporting director Andrea Berta sanction more signings elsewhere.
Defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi is one player that is expected to arrive at Emirates Stadium this summer with a deal for him to join from Real Sociedad in a good place, as football.london understands. Further forward, a striker is also expected to join with Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres the most likely addition.
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Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus with the Arsenal Therapy Dog Win during the Arsenal Men's team group shoot at London Colney on September 18, 2023
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