Arsenal have joined the race to sign Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman from Atalanta and are preparing a player-plus-cash offer, with Polish defender Jakub Kiwior potentially included in the deal.

The Gunners have reportedly already submitted an initial bid of €50 million for the former Everton winger, as they seek to strengthen their attacking options before the transfer window closes.

Lookman, 26, has been a standout performer for Atalanta since joining from RB Leipzig in 2022, with his most recent heroics a hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen.

His impressive form has attracted interest from several top European clubs, with Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool also keen on securing his services.

However, Atalanta are holding firm on their valuation of the Nigeria international, reportedly setting a €70 million asking price, according to Italian sources. Arsenal’s initial offer falls short of this figure, prompting discussions about including Kiwior in the deal to bridge the gap.

The Poland international, who joined Arsenal in January 2023, has found playing time limited this season following the arrival of Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber’s return from injury. Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is reportedly interested in Kiwior, which could pave the way for negotiations to progress.

Arsenal’s willingness to include the defender in the deal highlights their determination to sign Lookman, who is pushing for a move away from Bergamo after reportedly asking to be left out of Atalanta’s recent Serie A match against Lecce.

Lookman’s potential departure has become a hot topic, with reports suggesting that Paris Saint-Germain made direct contact with the player’s representatives, offering him a lucrative contract that more than doubles his current salary.

Despite the interest from PSG and other European giants, Lookman appears to be keeping his options open, with Arsenal now emerging as a serious contender for his signature. The Gunners, who are keen to add more firepower to their squad as they aim to challenge for major honours this season, see Lookman as a versatile option capable of operating across the front line.

While Arsenal are pushing to get the deal over the line, Atalanta remain adamant that any offer must meet their valuation, especially given that Lookman’s contract runs until 2026.

Lookman’s stock has risen significantly since his move to Italy, where he has scored 32 goals and provided 18 assists in 79 appearances for Atalanta. His performances have also drawn attention from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad, who reportedly tabled a bumper €30 million offer along with an annual salary of €11 million. However, the 26-year-old is said to prefer remaining in Europe, where he can compete at the highest level.

Credit: punchng.com