Report: Arsenal eye summer move for Serie A forward amid growing interest | OneFootball

Ademola Lookman’s Premier League Redemption Could Begin at Arsenal

Arsenal’s interest in Ademola Lookman may appear surprising on the surface. After all, this is a player once deemed surplus to requirements at Everton and Leipzig, drifting between top-flight sides without leaving a lasting imprint. But football thrives on reinvention, and Lookman, crowned African Player of the Year in 2024, has carved a compelling second act in Serie A with Atalanta. Now, the 27-year-old may be preparing to bring that rebirth full circle — back to the Premier League.

From Outcast to Continental Champion

Lookman’s resurgence in Italy has been nothing short of remarkable. His 17 goals and 10 assists in 2023/24 were not simply numbers on a scoresheet — they were milestones in a narrative of redemption. His Europa League final hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, halting Xabi Alonso’s side’s historic unbeaten streak, immortalised him in Bergamo folklore.

Still, statistics only tell part of the story. His performances have blended directness, intelligence, and composure — qualities that once flickered inconsistently but now blaze with purpose. It’s no coincidence that Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg confirms Arsenal have “added him to their shortlist”. Nor is it surprising that Lookman, despite a contract running until 2027, is reportedly “searching for a new club for the summer.”

Arsenal’s Tactical Puzzle

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are evolving. With Kai Havertz settling into a central attacking role and Gabriel Martinelli lacking consistency this season, Lookman’s versatility offers intriguing solutions. He can play as a central striker, operate just off the front man, or slot into the left flank with equal efficiency.

While the Gunners have kept Nico Williams of Athletic Club as their top wide target, his significant wage demands have cooled that pursuit. Lookman, by contrast, could represent a financially and tactically flexible option, particularly at his reported £51 million release clause.

Arsenal’s recent recruitment has been increasingly pragmatic — less about hype, more about system fit and mentality. In Lookman, they would be getting a player who now understands his own game, flourishes in high-pressure environments, and still has unfinished business in English football.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From an Arsenal fan’s viewpoint, the club’s interest in Ademola Lookman feels like a smart, potentially under-the-radar move that fits the evolution of Mikel Arteta’s project.

There’s no doubting Lookman’s pedigree now. He’s no longer the inconsistent winger from his Everton or Fulham days. He’s a continental champion, an African Player of the Year, and a genuine match-winner on the European stage. His hat-trick in the Europa League final was the kind of elite, big-game moment Arsenal have too often lacked in recent seasons.

Of course, the price tag of £51 million may raise some eyebrows. But in today’s market — especially considering his versatility and current form — that’s arguably good value. What really excites fans is how he might complement the squad. With Martinelli blowing hot and cold, Leandro Trossard not quite dominating games, Lookman could provide quality depth and a new dimension.

His desire to prove a point back in England adds to the appeal. Arteta has built a culture based on hunger, attitude, and players with something to prove. Lookman ticks those boxes. And with Champions League football on the cards next season, rotation and depth will be key.