Lookman to Arsenal? Nigeria teammate CONFIRMS interest

Tom Weber
Tom Weber
  • Updated: 14 Dec 2024 02:20 CST
  • 3 min read
Ademola Lookman, Atalanta, 2024/25
© IMAGO

Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has confirmed that 'big clubs' have been keen on Ademola Lookman since his hattrick in the Europa League final.

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The Super Eagles sensation is enjoying a rapid rise to prominence. Lookman has really found his feet at Atalanta after several unsuccessful years of trying to make it in the Premier League and Bundesliga.

Since his move to Bergamo in 2022, the 27-year-old has been nothing short of spectacular. In 96 games for La Dea, the versatile attacker has netted 43 goals and provided 23 assists.

READ MORE: Five Arsenal players who could leave in January

His statistics include the above-mentioned hattrick in the Europa League final last season in which he almost singlehandedly ended Bayer Leverkusen's historic unbeaten run.

In the wake of the game, the London-born star began getting linked with a big-money return to England, with Arsenal in particular among the clubs most prominently associated with him.

Ademola Lookman
© IMAGO - Ademola Lookman

Lookman interest confirmed

According to Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong, the speculation surrounding Lookman's future is well-founded as he indeed has high-profile suitors, though he refrained from explicitly mentioning Arsenal.

“He’s on fire now and a lot of promise is coming through,” Troost-Ekong told talkSPORT. “This season he’s been something else and at AFCON he was amazing.

READ MORE: Arsenal make 'total' U-turn as first January transfer takes shape

“I would say he’s arguably our best player and arguably the best player in Africa right now. On December 16, there will be the [African Player of the Year] ceremony and I’m sure he’s going to win it.

“Everybody saw the hat trick in the Europa League final and then there were a lot of rumours about big clubs which I know to be true, but Atalanta weren’t ready for him to go.

“If I was any top club right now I’d want him, he’s a top professional and a great lad, so I’m a very big fan.”

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