The former England striker, Ian Wright has identified newly crowned African Footballer of The Year, Ademola Lookman as one of two ‘perfect’ January transfer targets for the Gunners.

Speaking on the Wrighty’s House podcast, praised Lookman’s remarkable journey and recent achievements while suggesting the Atalanta forward could help boost Arsenal’s title chances.

“You look at them… the way we play and what we need, the both of them would be perfect. They would be brilliant,” Wright said, referring to Lookman and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush.

Wright also congratulated Lookman on his CAF award triumph, stating, “African Player of the Year, congratulations! He looked amazing. I saw a little documentary on him and it was so uplifting, his journey, so congratulations to him.”

The 27-year-old Nigerian has been in scintillating form this season, with nine goals and four assists in 14 Serie A appearances, helping Atalanta to the summit of the Italian league for the first time in their 116-year history.

His market value has nearly doubled from €30m to €55m following an outstanding year that included three goals at the Africa Cup of Nations, a historic Europa League hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, and a 14th-place finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings.

However, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has moved to dampen expectations of significant January activity.

“I never expect January to be super busy, but we have to wait and see where we are,” the Spaniard told reporters ahead of their goalless draw with Everton.

Atalanta President Antonio Percassi has also made it clear they intend to keep their talisman, stating, “Our plan is not to change anything in the January window,” despite interest from several European giants including Liverpool.

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