Arsenal are ready to make a late move for Ademola Lookman, potentially hijacking a transfer deal for the Super Eagles forward long pursued by Inter Milan.
The Atalanta forward, who scored 20 goals and registered seven assists last season, has submitted a formal transfer request in a bid to force a move away from Bergamo this summer.
Despite Inter Milan’s persistent interest and multiple bids, the Italian side has so far failed to meet Atalanta’s €50 million price tag.
According to Football Talk, Arsenal are monitoring the situation closely and could step in with a decisive bid to bring Lookman back to the Premier League after complications in their attempt to sign Eberechi Eze.
Arsenal wants Lookman as latest signing
It has already been a busy transfer window for Arsenal, with Christian Norgaard, Cristhian Mosquera, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, and Viktor Gyokeres all arriving in recent weeks.
However, manager Mikel Arteta is still in the market for a talented left winger to complete his attacking lineup.
🚨 Arsenal are considering entering the race for Ademola Lookman as a cheaper alternative to Eberechi Eze.
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) August 4, 2025
(Source: Football London) pic.twitter.com/KK4q6Vaox2
Lookman, who had stints at Fulham, Leicester, and Everton, is seen as the ideal fit for Arsenal’s current set-up.
The 2024 CAF Player of the Year winner’s ability to take on defenders one-on-one, create chances, and score goals makes him a strong candidate to join Arsenal's front line.
Inter Milan losing ground in Lookman race
Inter Milan, who had agreed personal terms with Lookman, had looked like the frontrunners for his signature, with a series of bids already made. However, Atalanta’s unwillingness to sell to a domestic rival has complicated the negotiations.
The Serie A club would reportedly prefer to sell abroad, which puts Premier League clubs, especially Arsenal, in a stronger position.
The Nerazzurri are preparing to return with an improved offer of €48 million including bonuses, but that may still fall short of Atalanta's asking price.
🚨💣 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Ademola Lookman has not shown up for training for the third day in a row and rumours are, he has completely left Italy. pic.twitter.com/snlA0Ri9CQ
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) August 6, 2025
Arsenal, with its financial capacity and an attractive sporting project under Arteta, could meet the valuation directly and possibly secure Lookman’s signature more quickly.
The Nigerian forward is said to be keen on a fresh challenge, and the chance to compete for titles at the Emirates Stadium may appeal to him.
Ian Wright backs Arsenal move for Lookman
Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Ian Wright has also lent his voice to the growing calls for Lookman’s return to England, Daily Post reports.
Since joining Atalanta in 2022, only one Serie A player has more G/A than Ademola Lookman.
— Soar Super Eagles (@SSE_NGA) August 1, 2025
Top tier 🎯 pic.twitter.com/yDEXMgNEJc
Speaking on his podcast, Wright described the Super Eagles winger as a “top player” who has “unfinished business” in the Premier League.
“I hope we can buy him, Arsenal,” said Wright. “I would love someone like him to come back and say, ‘I have unfinished business here, I’m going to help Arsenal win the league.’”
