Arsenal hold transfer talks over Ademola Lookman but have long list of other targets

Arsenal have opened discussions over a potential move for Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, but the Gunners are keeping their options wide as they continue reshaping their attacking line-up this summer, Soccernet.ng understands.

According to a report from The Athletic, Arsenal have held exploratory talks about signing the Nigerian international, whose performances in Serie A have sparked interest across Europe.

Lookman has been one of Atalanta’s standout performers, netting 20 goals and providing assists assists across Serie A and the UEFA Champions League last season.

That excellent output has made him a top target for clubs like Napoli, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, in addition to the North London side.

However, Arsenal’s recruitment drive is not focused solely on Lookman. The club is actively pursuing several other attacking profiles, weighing up their options both tactically and financially.

One of their top priorities remains Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyökeres, who is seen as the central piece in Mikel Arteta’s summer rebuild. Should Arsenal finalise that deal soon, it would allow the club to redirect resources toward wide attacking reinforcements.

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While Lookman is open to returning to the Premier League — where he previously featured for Everton, Fulham, and Leicester —Arsenal have so far hesitated to meet Atalanta’s asking price. That stance could shift depending on outgoing transfers and budget flexibility post-Gyökeres.

Arsenal are also actively working on a deal for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, having agreed personal terms but still lacking an agreement with the Blues.

Elsewhere, the Gunners have done background work on Real Madrid's Rodrygo and held informal talks with his representatives. Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon and Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze also remain under watch, though progress on those fronts is minimal.

Meanwhile, the Gunners have secured a deal for Brentford midfielder Christian Nørgaard and are targeting Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera to bolster their defence after releasing Takehiro Tomiyasu.

At academy level, 17-year-old Igor Tyjon of Blackburn Rovers is being lined up to strengthen the under-21 setup, with Arsenal aiming to future-proof their attacking talent pipeline.

With several targets identified and financial manoeuvring underway, Arsenal's final choices could come down to value, versatility, and how quickly they can land their primary striker before pivoting to complementary roles.

Lookman, who joined Atalanta for just over ten million euros from RB Leipzig in 2022, currently has a value of €60 million, as per Transfermarkt.