Why Ademola Lookman is the perfect replacement as Arsenal agree Trossard sale

Arsenal’s summer rebuild has taken another major step after agreeing a deal to sell Belgian forward Leandro Trossard to Turkish club Besiktas, Afrik-Foot reports.

The agreement is worth €20 million (£17.1 million), including bonuses, as manager Mikel Arteta continues reshaping his squad after leading the Gunners to the Premier League title.

Although the transfer has not yet been completed, Arsenal are already expected to look for a new attacking player who can strengthen the left side of their attack. One player who perfectly matches the club’s needs is Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman, who has been made available for transfer by Atletico Madrid. Lookman’s qualities could make him an ideal replacement if Arsenal decide to move for him.

Arsenal agree Trossard sale as squad rebuild gathers pace

Reports say Arsenal and Besiktas have reached an agreement in principle for Trossard’s transfer. The deal includes a guaranteed €18 million (£15.4 million) payment, with another €2 million (£1.7 million) available through performance-related bonuses.

If everything goes through, Trossard is expected to earn around €9 million (£7.7 million) every season in Turkey.

The decision to sell the Belgian forward is based on several factors. Although he signed an improved contract in August 2025, the agreement did not extend beyond June 2027. With only one year remaining on his deal, Arsenal believe this summer is their best opportunity to receive a good transfer fee instead of risking losing him for less later.

The sale also helps Arteta create space in his attacking squad while raising money for new signings. Arsenal have already been linked with several younger attacking players as they continue refreshing the left wing ahead of another Premier League and UEFA Champions League campaign.

The transfer is still waiting for the final details. Personal terms have not been fully completed, and an official announcement is expected only after Belgium’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign finishes.

Trossard remains focused on international duty, where he has impressed by scoring two goals against New Zealand before adding an assist against Senegal, showing he is leaving Arsenal in strong form.

Why Ademola Lookman could be the perfect replacement for Trossard

If Arsenal complete Trossard’s departure, Lookman stands out as one of the most suitable players to fill the vacancy because he already possesses many of the qualities Arteta values.

One of Lookman’s biggest strengths is his tactical versatility. Like Trossard, the Nigerian international can play in several attacking positions. He is naturally comfortable on the left wing but can also feature on the right to support Bukayo Saka, or operate as a second striker when needed. His ability to use both feet also makes him difficult for defenders to predict, giving Arsenal greater attacking variety against teams that defend deep.

Another major advantage is his direct style of play. Lookman, who is not considered untouchable at Atlético, combines speed with excellent dribbling, regularly driving past defenders in one-on-one situations. His average of more than four progressive dribbles per match and almost two successful take-ons every game shows his ability to carry the ball into dangerous areas. Just as importantly, he works hard without possession and fits the aggressive pressing system that Arteta demands from every forward.

Another reason is his experience in high-pressure matches. Lookman has built a reputation for producing when it matters most. His unforgettable Europa League final hat-trick showed his ability to deliver on the biggest stage, while his performances in the UEFA Champions League have further strengthened his reputation as a player who can handle elite competition.

Unlike many overseas targets, Lookman also knows English football well after previous spells with Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City. That experience means he would need little time to adapt to the Premier League and could immediately compete for a place in Arsenal’s starting lineup.

With Arsenal preparing for another title defence and another Champions League challenge, the possible departure of Trossard may create the perfect opportunity for the Gunners to bring Nigeria’s finest left-wing forward back to the Premier League.