Arsenal are now in the race to sign a "world-class" striker who's unhappy at his current club, meaning a deal could be possible for £54m this summer, according to a report.
New striker wanted despite Merino form
Mikel Merino has done a fine job stepping in at striker when called upon this season, amid injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, with the Spaniard outscoring a number of high-profile forwards in the Premier League.
That said, given that Merino is not an out-and-out striker, Mikel Arteta remains keen on bringing in a top centre-forward in the summer, and the Gunners continue to be linked with some big-name signings.
Lille's Jonathan David and Newcastle United's Alexander Isak are both on the shortlist, having been in fine form in front of goal this season, while the north Londoners also retain an interest in RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko and Fiorentina's Moise Kean.
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Arsenal leading race to sign “wonderful” star; he’d earn £50m+ at Emirates
Arsenal are in the market for some exciting reinforcements.
According to a report from Caught Offside, another name on Arsenal's list of targets is Ademola Lookman, who is expected to leave Atalanta this summer, amid widespread reports of a falling out with manager Gian Piero Gasperini.
However, the race for Lookman is seriously hotting up, as seven Premier League clubs are now chasing the forward, namely Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and Aston Villa, so there is set to be fierce competition for his signature.
Atalanta's Ademola Lookman in action
The Italian club have set an asking price of €65m (£54m), amid the widespread interest, with the likes of Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Juventus also believed to be keen on the former Everton man, who actually has the same agent as Havertz.
"World-class" Lookman could be perfect for Arsenal
The Nigerian has predominantly featured as a second striker or centre-forward for Atalanta this season, and he has put in some very impressive performances, amassing 18 goals and seven assists in 32 matches in all competitions.
Not only that, but the 27-year-old has been lauded as "world-class" by the BBC's John Bennett, in light of his performances across 2024, most notably scoring a hat-trick for Atalanta to lead them to glory in the Europa League final.
While the London-born forward has often featured centrally this season, he is also capable of playing on either wing, which could make him an ideal option for Arsenal next season.
Arteta has been left light on options in attack at times, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli spending time on the sidelines, and the signing of Lookman would provide the strength in depth required to compete on all fronts.