Arsenal have reportedly made Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman their top transfer target this summer, surpassing Athletic Club’s Nico Williams as they look to bolster their attacking options, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
The Nigerian forward has been in outstanding form this season, with 18 goals and seven assists in 37 appearances.
Lookman is expected to leave Atalanta after a successful three-year spell under manager Gian Piero Gasperini.
Arsenal are said to be among five Premier League clubs planning discussions with the 27-year-old ahead of the upcoming transfer window, with Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle United also showing interest, as reported by CaughtOffside.
Lookman’s impressive turnaround since his time in the Premier League has drawn the attention of top European clubs.
In previous stints at Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City, he managed just 11 goals in 96 appearances. However, his time at Atalanta has seen him net 50 goals in 115 games across all competitions.
His standout performance in last season’s Europa League final, where he scored a hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, further showcased his quality, and he has continued to impress this season.
Barcelona and Juventus are reportedly in contact with Lookman’s representatives, although both clubs may struggle to meet Atalanta’s asking price, which is believed to be between €60 million and €65 million.
Given Barcelona’s financial struggles, they could find it difficult to compete with Premier League sides, potentially opening the door for Lookman to return to England.
If Arsenal succeed in securing Lookman’s signature, it could put an end to their long-running pursuit of Nico Williams, the Spanish international who has been their primary left-wing target for the past year.
With Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard already in the squad, Arsenal are unlikely to sign both Lookman and Williams.
Meanwhile, Manchester United, struggling with offensive issues this season, are reportedly considering a swap deal involving Danish striker Rasmus Højlund in a bid to bring Lookman to Old Trafford.
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