Having a rift with the coach, Arsenal seized the opportunity to snatch a "precious gem" at a bargain price.
The "golden" opportunity for Arsenal to own Ademola Lookman from Atalanta is opening up in the summer transfer window of 2025!
The Nigerian striker is said to be ready to look for a new destination after publicly expressing his dissatisfaction with coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
After his fateful penalty miss, which saw Atalanta exit the UEFA Champions League at the hands of Club Brugge, Lookman was subjected to harsh criticism from coach Gasperini, who bluntly called him “one of the worst penalty takers” he had ever seen. Feeling “deeply offended,” Lookman did not hesitate to express his disappointment on social media.
According to Give Me Sport, Arsenal have been keeping an eye on Lookman since December 2024, and the 27-year-old is said to be keen on joining Mikel Arteta's side. The Gunners are currently facing a personnel crisis in attack, with key players such as Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz all injured. This leaves them with only Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling and young talent Ethan Nwaneri as possible attacking options.
Lookman has made great strides under the guidance of coach Gasperini, becoming one of the most exciting wingers in Europe. Last season, he scored a historic hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final, helping Atalanta beat Bayer Leverkusen and win the title. This season, he has continued his brilliant form with 15 goals in all competitions.
Atalanta are said to be willing to listen to offers of around £50m for Lookman. If Arsenal decide to "go all in" on this deal, he would be a very high-quality addition, bringing depth to the team's attack, especially in the context of their desire for personnel to compete for the title next season.
