SBOTOP: Atalanta Name Their Price for Lookman Amid Arsenal’s Growing Summer Interest in Nigerian Winger

As the summer transfer window gathers momentum, Arsenal have turned their attention to one of Serie A’s most electric performers — Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian international whose exploits with Atalanta have not gone unnoticed across Europe. Reports indicate that Atalanta have now set a clear asking price for the 26-year-old, paving the way for a potential Premier League return for the former Charlton, Everton, and RB Leipzig forward.

While Arsenal have a well-stocked attack, manager Mikel Arteta is believed to be a keen admirer of Lookman’s dynamism, versatility, and recent record in Europe. The Gunners’ growing interest aligns with the club’s push to deepen their bench for both domestic and European competitions, and Lookman’s standout performances in the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League, including a hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen, have only fueled that ambition.

But with Atalanta slapping a substantial price tag on their prized winger, Arsenal must weigh their priorities carefully as they assess where Lookman fits into their tactical and financial plans.

Lookman’s Rise in Bergamo A Journey of Redemption

Few players exemplify perseverance like Ademola Lookman. From early promise at Charlton Athletic, a big-money move to Everton, and an uneven spell in Germany and England, to finally finding his rhythm in Italy — Lookman’s journey has been anything but linear.

When he arrived at Atalanta in 2022, few anticipated the impact he would make. However, under manager Gian Piero Gasperini, Lookman blossomed into a tactical weapon. His direct running, improved decision-making, and finishing made him an automatic starter.

2023/24 Season Highlights:
- Goals in All Competitions: 17
- Assists: 8
- Europa League Final: Hat-trick vs Bayer Leverkusen
- Serie A Dribbles per 90: 2.8 (Top 10 in the league)
- Successful Take-Ons: 60% success rate
- Heatmap: Left wing dominant, but often cuts inside centrally

The Nigerian international has not only rejuvenated his club career but also become a regular starter for the Super Eagles, showing maturity and leadership.

Arsenal’s Interest Tactical Need or Market Opportunity

Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to add attacking depth, particularly in wide areas. While Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka are undisputed starters, both showed signs of fatigue during the latter stages of the season. Arteta is looking for someone who can:

Rotate without a drop in quality
Add Champions League-level experience
Provide goal threat from the bench or starting XI
Why Lookman Fits Arsenal’s Profile:

Versatility: Can play on either wing or as a second striker.
Work Rate: Willing to track back — key for Arteta’s defensive shape.
European Pedigree: Proved himself on the biggest stage in the Europa League final.
Premier League Experience: Already familiar with the pace and intensity of the league from his time at Everton, Fulham, and Leicester.

According to sources close to the Emirates, Edu Gaspar, Arsenal’s technical director, has initiated informal talks with Lookman’s representatives to gauge interest and feasibility.

The Asking Price Atalanta Draw a Line

According to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, Atalanta have valued Lookman at €40 million (£34 million). That figure reflects:

His form over the last two seasons
His age (26, approaching peak years)
His performance in European competitions
The fact that his contract runs until June 2026

Atalanta are in a strong bargaining position. They have no urgent need to sell, especially after securing Champions League qualification. However, the Serie A side is known for capitalizing on peak market value, and they’ve shown in the past — with transfers like Cristian Romero (to Tottenham) and Rasmus Højlund (to Manchester United) — that they’re savvy sellers.

Potential Transfer Structure

Given Arsenal’s need to prioritize multiple areas (including midfield and defense), they may attempt to negotiate a structured deal, possibly involving:

Initial fee of around £25 million
Add-ons based on appearances and Champions League performance
Sell-on clause to Atalanta (a common move to sweeten the pot)

Atalanta, while firm on the price, may entertain such a structure if Lookman expresses a desire to leave and the financials remain favorable.

Premier League Competition for Lookman

Arsenal aren’t the only English club monitoring Lookman. Sources indicate interest from:

West Ham United, who are rebuilding their attack under Julen Lopetegui
Tottenham Hotspur, looking for wide depth and more directness
Aston Villa, now preparing for their Champions League campaign under Unai Emery

However, Arsenal’s Champions League status, project stability, and London location may give them the edge if it comes to a bidding war.

Arteta’s Tactical Vision Where Would Lookman Play

Should Lookman arrive, how would he be used?

Backup for Martinelli on the Left

Lookman’s natural position at Atalanta has been on the left. This makes him the ideal rotational option for Martinelli, especially with the Brazilian’s form fluctuating due to injuries last season.

False 9 or Second Striker

Lookman has shown an ability to play centrally, especially in fluid systems. Arteta has occasionally experimented with a mobile front three—Lookman could slide in as a central attacker in games that require counter-attacking pace.

Late-Game Impact Sub

With the added pressure of Champions League and Premier League runs, Arsenal need match-winners on the bench. Lookman’s ability to change a game late with his directness and dribbling makes him a useful “Plan B” without compromising quality.

Lookman’s Perspective Open to Return

Though Lookman is reportedly content in Italy, sources close to the player say he remains open to a Premier League return — but only under the right conditions.

“He’s happy at Atalanta, but he’s ambitious. He wants to play in the Champions League and be a regular with Nigeria. If the project makes sense, he’ll listen,” a representative reportedly told The Athletic.

Having bounced across clubs in England and Germany, Lookman may now be more discerning. Arsenal represents not just a return to familiar territory, but also a shot at silverware, a supportive manager, and a club with a clearly defined structure.