Report: Arsenal push for €50m Serie A star this summer | OneFootball

Arsenal Reignite Interest in €50m Ademola Lookman Deal

Arsenal’s pursuit of attacking reinforcements continues this summer, with fresh reports indicating the Gunners have reopened negotiations for Atalanta’s star forward, Ademola Lookman. Originally reported by Alfredo Pedullà of Football Italia, the 27-year-old Nigeria international is once again on Arsenal’s radar following an electrifying campaign in Serie A.

Lookman’s Rise in Italy Turning Heads

Lookman has flourished under Gian Piero Gasperini at Atalanta since joining from RB Leipzig in 2022. Signed for €10.85 million plus bonuses and a sell-on clause, he has grown into one of Serie A’s most potent attacking threats. His latest season was nothing short of remarkable — netting 20 goals and providing seven assists in 40 competitive fixtures, helping La Dea clinch third place and secure a Champions League spot.

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“It all saw him named African Player of the Year for 2024,” Pedullà noted, and with good reason. His crowning moment came in the UEFA Europa League final, where Lookman delivered a stunning hat-trick against unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen to secure the trophy for Atalanta.

Premier League Return in Sight?

Arsenal had initial talks with Lookman last summer, but no move materialised. Liverpool were also linked. Now, 10 months later, the player’s profile has soared, and Atalanta have reportedly slapped a €50 million price tag on their prized asset. Pedullà adds that “the former Charlton, Everton and Fulham man feels he has proved himself sufficiently in Italy to warrant another crack at the Premier League.”

This is not unfamiliar territory for the South London-born forward. Having come through the Charlton academy, then played spells with Everton and Fulham, Lookman is well-acquainted with English football, but he’s now returning with continental pedigree and silverware.

Arsenal’s Attacking Ambitions

With Gabriel Jesus struggling for consistency and Gabriel Martinelli still not fully convincing at the elite level, Mikel Arteta’s interest in Lookman makes tactical sense. Lookman brings versatility — able to play across the front line — and proven output in high-pressure matches. His ability to carry the ball, create overloads, and finish clinically has matured significantly in Italy.

Atalanta’s valuation of €45-50 million plus add-ons reflects both Lookman’s output and potential resale value. Whether Arsenal are willing to meet those demands remains to be seen, but the renewed talks suggest genuine interest.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From an Arsenal fan’s perspective, this rumour makes a lot of sense — and raises a few questions. First, there’s a clear recognition that Arteta needs depth and variety in attack. Lookman, who has already proven himself in the Premier League and come back stronger from a stint in Serie A, offers exactly that. His tactical intelligence and pressing ability align well with Arteta’s system, and his productivity in Europe — particularly the Europa League final hat-trick — shows he can deliver on big occasions.

Still, the reported €50m fee could give pause. While Lookman is in his prime and has an excellent track record, fans may wonder whether the club should prioritise a true No.9, or spread that investment across other positions — especially with midfield depth still being debated.

That said, there’s plenty of upside. At 27, Lookman brings experience without being past his peak, and the fact that he wants to return to England is a bonus in terms of motivation. He’s not just another name; he’s a player whose form demands respect, and fans will hope Edu and the recruitment team are seeing the bigger picture in targeting someone ready to contribute immediately.