Arsenal STEP UP Lookman pursuit despite Gasperini apology

Tom Weber

Updated: 22 Feb 2025 15:50 GMT
4 min read

Arsenal are ready to 'return to the charge' for long-time target Ademola Lookman after his falling out with Gian Piero Gasperini.

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Gasperini's Atalanta crashed out of the Champions League in embarrassing fashion this week as they were demolished on home turf by Club Brugge.

Despite having been heavy favourites, the Serie A side lost the first leg and then went gung-ho, all-out attacking in the return fixture, which played right into Brugge's hands as they were able to ruthlessly counter.

The tie ultimately finished 5-2 on aggregate and manager Gasperini was left fuming after the game. He publically hit out at star attacker Ademola Lookman, calling him "the worst penalty taker I've ever seen" after he had missed a crucial spot kick.

The following day, the reigning African Footballer of the Year bit back at his boss for his 'disrespectful' comments in a lengthy statement on social media.

Lookman to leave despite Gasperini apology

Speaking in the build-up to Atalanta's game with Empoli on Sunday, Gasperini apologised to Lookman and dropped a bombshell hint that he will join the Nigerian in heading out the door.

"Lookman had an extraordinary impact," Gasperini began. "Regarding everything that happened afterwards around the penalty, my comment was not meant to be offensive... If he felt offended, I didn't want to offend him."

The 67-year-old then announced that he won't extend his contract, which expires in the summer, although there is still an option for another year.

"There is a beginning and an end for everything, there will be no renewals or continuity. At the end of the season, we will see if it will be the case to go out of contract or not," Gasperini said.

As for Lookman, it is already guaranteed that he will leave Bergamo in 2025. Several sources have recently confirmed that the 27-year-old is planning a summer move after failing to secure a transfer last year.

According to Calciomercato, Arsenal and Liverpool are ready to 'return to the charge' for the Nigerian after previously holding an interest in him. It is claimed that Atalanta would ideally like €60 million for Lookman but that they may have to budge from their valuation.