Ademola Lookman, Atalanta’s star forward, has openly expressed his desire to join Arsenal during the upcoming January transfer window.
The 27-year-old Nigerian forward is reportedly keen to work under Mikel Arteta, a coach he greatly admires.
However, the transfer hinges on Atalanta’s willingness to part with one of their most valuable players, a move the Serie A leaders are currently hesitant to make.
Lookman has been in exceptional form this season, solidifying his reputation as one of Europe’s top attacking talents.
With 11 goals and five assists in 19 appearances, he has been pivotal in Atalanta’s impressive campaign, which sees them leading Serie A on the back of a 10-game winning streak.
This form has attracted attention from major Premier League clubs, with Arsenal and Liverpool reportedly leading the race for his signature.
Despite Lookman’s enthusiasm for a move to North London, Atalanta has made it clear that they do not intend to sell him or any key players during the winter window.
The club’s management is focused on maintaining squad stability to support their pursuit of domestic and European success.
Atalanta’s recent progress has been significant, and they view Lookman as a crucial part of their long-term ambitions.
Lookman’s meteoric rise reached a high point in 2024 when he was named Best African Player, a recognition of his consistency and impact.
His remarkable hat-trick in last season’s Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen not only secured Atalanta’s first-ever European trophy but also enhanced his global profile.
Although his contract runs until 2026, Lookman’s desire to play in the Premier League has fueled speculation about a potential move.
Arsenal’s interest in Lookman is driven by their need for attacking reinforcements.
With Gabriel Jesus struggling with injuries and Eddie Nketiah yet to fully establish himself, the Gunners see Lookman as an ideal addition to their forward line.
His versatility across the front three positions aligns perfectly with Arteta’s vision of building a competitive and youthful squad.
Playing alongside talents like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard is said to be a major draw for Lookman.
Liverpool has also shown interest, with reports suggesting they made an offer that Atalanta rejected.
Jurgen Klopp is believed to admire Lookman’s goal-scoring prowess and adaptability, but Liverpool seems to have shifted focus to other targets.
Atalanta’s firm stance on retaining Lookman reflects their ambitions to remain competitive in Serie A and Europe.
Losing him mid-season could disrupt their momentum and undermine their title challenge.
The club’s refusal to entertain major departures this winter underscores their commitment to sustaining success.
As the January transfer window nears, Lookman’s admiration for Arteta and his Premier League aspirations add intrigue to the saga.
Whether Atalanta holds firm or Arsenal convinces them to sell, the outcome will have significant implications for both Lookman’s career and Arsenal’s title ambitions.