Arsenal want Nigeria star to solve problem position

Cameron Smith

20 Sept 2024 13:00 BST
3 min read

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman after his performance against the Gunners on Thursday night.

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Lookman, 26, played 90 minutes as Gian Piero Gasperini’s side held Arsenal to a 0-0 draw and he has now emerged as a transfer target for the north London club.

That is according to TBR Football, who report that Arsenal were also impressed by the performance of Brazil midfielder Ederson.

Liverpool, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur also sent scouts to watch both Lookman and Ederson during the game, as per the report, with both players potentially set to leave Atalanta in 2025.

Manchester United are also admirers of Ederson, while Paris Saint-Germain were close to finalising an agreement for Lookman this summer.

However, Arsenal are reportedly looking to sign both players as they look to add a new midfielder and a new forward in 2025.

Ademola Lookman to solve problem position?

Arsenal wanted to sign Athletic Club’s Nico Williams during the summer window, but he was reluctant to leave Spain and he opted to snub transfer interest in order to stay with Athletic.

However, left wing remains a problem position for Arsenal amid Gabriel Martinelli’s woeful form in front of goal.

The Brazil international is shockingly without a goal or an assist in his last 19 competitive games for club or country, yet he remains Mikel Arteta’s first-choice.

Current ETV

Gabriel Martinelli

F (L)

Arsenal

Gabriel Martinelli

F (L)

Arsenal

ETV Range

€49.5M - €82.5M

Leandro Trossard is still mostly used as an impact substitute, while Raheem Sterling appears to have been brought in on loan as a Bukayo Saka back-up.

As a result, signing a new left winger seemingly remains on Arsenal’s agenda and Lookman has emerged as one of their key targets.

The Nigeria international notched 17 goals and 10 assists in all competitions last season, with his form earning him a nomination for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.