Arsenal is eyeing a potential move for Ademola Lookman in the final stretch of the transfer window. The Nigerian winger, currently with Atalanta, has found himself in the spotlight after PSG initially expressed interest. However, the French side has seemingly pulled back, opening the door for other suitors, with the Gunners now keen on securing his services.
Lookman missed Atalanta’s first Serie A match of the season, a notable absence that hinted at PSG’s interest in bringing him to Ligue 1. Yet, as PSG’s pursuit has cooled, Arsenal seems ready to step in. The north Londoners are eager to bolster their attacking options before the window shuts, and Lookman appears to be a strong candidate to fulfill that need. His performance in the 2024 Europa League final, where he bagged a hat-trick, certainly adds to his appeal.
Reports suggest that Arsenal is preparing to ramp up their efforts in the coming days. The Gunners are exploring the possibility of including Jakub Kiwior as part of the deal to entice Atalanta into letting go of Lookman. Kiwior, a versatile defender, may sweeten the offer, as Arsenal looks for ways to balance their squad while bringing in the Nigerian forward.
Arsenal eye this world class Nigerian winger
From a tactical standpoint, Lookman would bring pace and creativity to Arsenal’s frontline. His ability to operate on either flank would give Mikel Arteta more flexibility in attack. Arsenal’s current attacking setup, which already boasts talent like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, could benefit from Lookman’s direct style of play. The Gunners have shown a willingness to mix youth with experience, and Lookman, at 26, offers the right balance of both.
At Atalanta, Lookman has demonstrated his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. His hat-trick in the Europa League final not only showcased his finishing prowess but also his composure on the big stage. This is the kind of player Arsenal needs as they aim to compete on multiple fronts this season. Lookman’s addition could provide depth and a new dimension to their attack, something Arteta has been looking for.
The question now is whether Arsenal can get the deal over the line before the window closes. Time is ticking, and while PSG’s withdrawal has made things easier, other clubs could still come into the picture. Arsenal will need to move quickly and decisively if they want to avoid a last-minute scramble.
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In terms of fitting into the squad, Lookman wouldn’t just be a rotational option. His versatility and experience could see him pushing for a starting spot, especially with the demands of European and domestic competitions. Arteta has often emphasized the importance of having a deep squad, and Lookman’s signing would align with that philosophy.
From a financial perspective, Arsenal will need to weigh the cost of the transfer against their remaining budget. Including Kiwior in the deal could help reduce the fee, but it also means losing a defensive option. The Gunners will need to consider if Lookman’s potential impact justifies this move.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Ademola Lookman represents a calculated gamble. His talent and experience make him a strong candidate to strengthen the squad, but the club must act quickly to finalize the deal. If they succeed, Lookman could prove to be a valuable addition to the Gunners’ attacking lineup. However, the decision to potentially include Kiwior in the offer raises questions about the balance between bolstering the attack and maintaining defensive stability. Ultimately, it’s a risk worth taking, especially with PSG out of the race.
