Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are said to have picked up an interest in Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman. But surprisingly, it’s not the goals that made the Gunners hierarchy fall in love with him.
Lookman has registered 20 goals and seven assists across 39 appearances this season, but it’s his versatility that’s caught Arsenal’s attention.
According to Sky Sport Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, the club has begun preliminary talks with agents, with the Atalanta forward firmly on their radar.
Though Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Goes remains their top attacking target, Lookman has emerged as an appealing option due to his ability to operate across the front three. In a system where positional fluidity is vital, the Nigerian offers a solution, one that blends pace, directness, and tactical discipline.
Ademola Lookman: Cheaper, smarter and proven
Lookman’s profile fits a club trying to spend wisely without sacrificing quality. Atalanta are reportedly open to offers above €40 million, and for a player with proven European pedigree, that could represent value in a bloated market.
But Arsenal aren’t the only ones circling. Juventus have also been credited with interest, but the Bianconeri’s shortlist is packed with names like Victor Osimhen, Rasmus Højlund, and Mateo Retegui. Barcelona have reportedly made quiet enquiries as well.
🇳🇬 Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, 27)
◎ 99th percentile for xG + xA
◎ 97th percentile for non-penalty goals
◎ 94th percentile for attacking actions
◎ 92nd percentile for successful dribbles
◎ 88th percentile for progressive carries📊 vs Serie A Wingers
🥇 Most goals
🥇 Most… pic.twitter.com/Ixs8bM26lQ— DataMB (@DataMB_) May 23, 2025
Beyond the transfer noise, Lookman’s consistency is backed by data. Ranked the fifth most efficient winger across Europe’s top seven leagues by DataMB, the 27-year-old outperformed the likes of Vinicius Jr, Olise, and even Mbappé based on non-penalty expected goals and assists.
The 2024 CAF Men's Player of the Year could make his final Serie A appearance for La Dea when Atalanta host Parma this weekend.
