Why Arsenal are interested in signing 2024 Ballon D’Or contender who’s had underwhelming Premier League spell

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Arsenal are set to finish another season without a trophy, finishing second in the Premier League for the third consecutive season.

Their last trophy came in 2020 with the FA Cup, and despite a talented squad and significant support from the club, Mikel Arteta has yet to deliver a title since.

This season, injuries played a role, disrupting the North London side’s momentum as Liverpool ran away with the Premier League.

Arsenal have prioritised bolstering their attack going into the next season, with a number of players linked. One of them is Atalanta star Ademola Lookman.

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Arsenal in talks with the agent of Ademola Lookman

According to Sky reporter Florian Plettenberg, the club is actively exploring options in attack and views the Nigerian international as a strong candidate.

New sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly in contact with the agent of Lookman as well as Rodrygo.

The Gunners are said to favour Lookman for his versatility across the frontline, along with his explosive pace and direct playing style, which make him a decisive threat in the final third.

Taking to X, Plettenberg reported: “Arsenal are currently very active in the market, especially when it comes to wingers. Talks with agents and clubs are in full swing.

“Rodrygo remains highly rated. Ademola Lookman is also still a topic, due to his versatility. Andrea Berta is holding numerous talks.”

Ademola Lookman’s previous Premier League stints

Lookman’s previous Premier League stints were underwhelming. He burst onto the scene with Charlton, with his performances catching the eyes of Everton who signed him in 2017.

However, despite glimpses of talent, he struggled to secure a regular place in the team, resulting in loan spells abroad before a permanent move in 2019.

He returned to English football on loan in 2020 with Fulham and again in 2021 with Leicester but failed to make any significant impact.

Club Appearances Goals Scored
Everton 48 4
Fulham (loan) 35 4
Leicester City (loan) 42 8
Ademola Lookman’s stats for English clubs

Despite his failed stints in the Premier League, Arsenal remain keen on signing him and that is due to his rise as a player in Italy.

Since joining Atalanta in 2022, he has developed into a top-class player. Lookman was a contender to win the Ballon d’Or in 2024, after his incredible performances, helping his side win the Europa League last season.

He has scored 52 goals and assisted another 25 in 117 games for the Serie A side across all competitions.

Ian Wright has also urged Arsenal to sign Lookman and while there is interest from Arsenal, it has been reported that Lookman was also keen on joining Arsenal.

Whether the interest translates into a concrete move remains to be seen.

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