Reigning CAF Player of the Year Ademola Lookman has reappeared on the radar of Premier League giants Arsenal.
While it has been clear since February that the former Everton and Fulham man was set to leave Bergamo, his ultimate destination has remained a mystery. Most closely linked have been Napoli, but between Atalanta’s insistence on their valuation and their unwillingness to strengthen a rival, talks for the forward have reached an impasse.
With Arsenal returning to the table for the 27-year-old, however, there may finally be a bit of traction. Here are two key reasons why the Gunners have been emboldened to reopen talks for Lookman.
Atalanta willing to lower Lookman asking price
Per reports, the Italian side are happy to take around €45 million for their talisman, €15 million less than they have repeatedly briefed. This is crucial, as their inflexibility when negotiating with Napoli was key to the reigning Serie A champions walking away.
Arsenal have a lot of other business to do, especially at centre-forward, and have been prudent in their spending in other areas so far this summer. Lookman at a knockdown price would fit this approach well.
Rodrygo’s indecision at Real Madrid
Arsenal have made no secret of their desire to land Brazil international Rodrygo, or of the fact that he is their first choice for the left side of their attack.
— Rodrygo Goes (@RodrygoGoes) June 22, 2025
However, the 24-year-old, despite being benched for Real Madrid’s last two matches at the ongoing Club World Cup, continues to be outwardly committed to Los Blancos.
While Arsenal are happy to wait, sporting director Andrea Berta apparently likes to be prepared, and so having an agreement for Lookman in his back pocket could both future-proof Arsenal and make clear to Madrid in any potential negotiations that the Gunners will not be held to ransom.
