The future of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has become one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of the summer, with Arsenal reportedly weighing their options while Inter Milan continue to press for his signature. According to GiveMeSport, the Gunners admire the Atalanta winger but are prioritising other high-profile targets before making any concrete move.
Lookman, 27, is understood to be exploring an exit from the Serie A club after a standout season that saw him play a pivotal role in Atalanta’s attack. However, Atalanta remain firm in their stance, having already turned down several offers from Inter Milan. The Bergamo-based club is reluctant to strengthen a domestic rival, making a move abroad potentially more appealing if they decide to cash in.
Arsenal’s Transfer Priorities
While Lookman’s performances in Italy have caught the eye of Arsenal’s recruitment team, reports suggest that Mikel Arteta’s side have placed three other wingers ahead of him on their summer wishlist: Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon, and AC Milan’s Rafael Leão.
Each of those targets would command a significant fee and come with their own transfer complications. Rodrygo’s role at Real Madrid could be impacted by Kylian Mbappé’s arrival, but the Spanish giants are in no hurry to sell. Gordon has established himself as one of Newcastle’s most valuable assets, while Leão remains central to Milan’s ambitions in Serie A and the Champions League.
For Arsenal, the decision is not just about signing another wide forward but about managing squad depth and balance. Sources indicate there have been internal discussions about whether bringing in a new left winger could block the development of emerging talents such as Ethan Nwaneri and Noni Madueke. Additionally, the club would likely need to move on either Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli to make space for a new arrival in that position.
Outgoings Take Priority
Arsenal’s immediate focus is reportedly on player sales rather than additions. The club’s transfer strategy this summer has centred on raising funds and freeing up squad spots, with fringe players and loan returnees at risk of being offloaded. Arteta has been clear that any incoming signing must improve the team significantly rather than simply adding depth.
This approach reflects the Gunners’ ambitions to challenge on multiple fronts next season after falling just short in the Premier League title race. Arteta wants to ensure that every signing is not only of top quality but also fits seamlessly into his tactical setup.
Inter Milan’s Relentless Pursuit
Meanwhile, Inter Milan have not given up on Lookman. The Nerazzurri have been persistent in their attempts to bring the Nigerian back to Serie A’s elite, seeing him as a dynamic option to complement their forward line.
Lookman himself is believed to be pushing hard for the move, attracted by the opportunity to play Champions League football with the reigning Serie A champions. His ability to operate on either wing and cut inside to score has made him one of Europe’s most dangerous transitional attackers, and Inter see him as a perfect fit for Simone Inzaghi’s system.
However, Atalanta’s refusal to strengthen a direct rival remains the main stumbling block. Unless Inter can produce a significantly higher bid or structure an irresistible offer, the club’s preference may still be to sell him abroad.
Lookman’s Rise in Europe
Ademola Lookman’s journey has been a testament to resilience and adaptability. Born in London, the Nigerian international began his professional career with Charlton Athletic before earning a move to Everton in 2017. He also had a stint in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig, where his pace and dribbling ability shone, but consistency remained an issue.
It was his move to Atalanta in 2022 that truly unlocked his potential. Under Gian Piero Gasperini, Lookman thrived in an attacking system that encouraged creativity and high pressing. Last season, he delivered some of the best performances of his career, including a starring role in Atalanta’s Coppa Italia run and strong showings in Serie A.
For Nigeria, Lookman has been equally impactful, playing a key role in their AFCON 2023 campaign and becoming a regular threat on the international stage. His speed, directness, and improved finishing have made him one of Africa’s standout forwards in Europe’s top leagues.
What Arsenal Could Gain from Lookman
If Arsenal were to pivot towards signing Lookman, they would be acquiring a player in his prime, capable of operating across the forward line and offering a different attacking dimension. Lookman’s ability to break defensive lines with quick acceleration, combined with his growing reputation as a big-game performer, could provide valuable depth in a season where the Gunners will be competing in the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and EFL Cup.
However, with Arsenal’s preference currently leaning towards other targets, Lookman may remain a secondary option unless negotiations for Rodrygo, Gordon, or Leão stall or prove financially unfeasible.
Market Dynamics and the Weeks Ahead
The summer transfer market is often fluid, and circumstances can change quickly. If Atalanta soften their stance or Arsenal face setbacks in pursuing their top three targets, a move for Lookman could accelerate. Similarly, Inter Milan’s persistence may eventually wear down Atalanta, especially if the player’s desire to leave intensifies.
For now, the most likely scenario is that Arsenal continue to monitor Lookman’s situation from a distance while prioritising other deals and working on player exits. Inter remain the most aggressive suitor, but the road to securing his signature is far from straightforward.
Conclusion
Ademola Lookman’s future remains uncertain, with the Nigerian star caught in the middle of a complex transfer battle involving two of Europe’s biggest clubs. Arsenal admire him but have their sights set on other marquee signings, while Inter Milan are determined to make him a central part of their squad.
With Atalanta standing firm and the player pushing for a move, the next few weeks will be decisive. Whether he ends up in North London, returns to Serie A’s top tier with Inter, or remains in Bergamo, Lookman’s name will likely dominate transfer headlines until the window closes.
For the 27-year-old, the coming days represent not just a potential career-defining move but also the chance to take his game to an even higher level in one of Europe’s most competitive environments.
