As Arsenal intensifies efforts to bolster its attacking options for the upcoming Premier League campaign, club officials have begun exploring contingency plans in the event their pursuit of Ademola Lookman falls through. With negotiations still ongoing, the Gunners have now turned their attention to another South London-born talent of Nigerian descent, Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze.
Lookman, a standout performer in Atalanta’s Europa League-winning squad and the reigning African Footballer of the Year, has become a sought-after asset this transfer window. The Nigerian international, capable of operating both on the flanks and in an attacking midfield role, is viewed as a tactical asset in Mikel Arteta’s system. He is set to leave the Italian side this summer, a year after Atalanta blocked a move to PSG a decision that reportedly caused friction between Lookman and then-manager Gian Piero Gasperini, who has since departed for AS Roma.
The North London club has made initial contact with Lookman’s representatives, as reported by AFTV, and are monitoring his situation closely amid competition from other top clubs across England, Spain, and Italy. However, with the player also attracting interest from Barcelona, Arsenal is not relying on a single outcome.
According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners have reached out to Eze’s camp to evaluate the terms of a possible deal. Tottenham Hotspur fresh off their Europa League triumph are also in contention, having held separate discussions with the player’s representatives.
Despite a strong interest in Lookman, Eze presents a compelling alternative. His form last season was instrumental in guiding Crystal Palace to their first-ever FA Cup title and a spot in the Europa League. The Eagles value the 26-year-old at around £60 million a figure similar to Atalanta’s reported €60 million asking price for Lookman, although currency differences may still tip the scales.
Both players share similar profiles raised in South London by Nigerian parents, capable of playing off the left or centrally, and possessing the flair and dynamism Arteta craves in attack. Notably, while Lookman chose to represent Nigeria at senior level after a stint with England’s youth teams, Eze continues to feature for the Three Lions.
The fanbase appears divided over a potential move for Eze, with mixed reactions surfacing online. However, Arsenal’s leadership is focused on adding depth and flexibility to their frontline, a move seen as critical in their push to reclaim the league title after three seasons as runners-up.
Barcelona, under new manager Hansi Flick, are also eyeing Lookman, but their pursuit remains complicated due to concurrent interest in players like Nico Williams and Marcus Rashford. Meanwhile, Atalanta’s newly appointed boss, Ivan Juric, reportedly hopes to retain Lookman for the coming season, though the player’s exit now seems likely.
As the transfer window progresses, Arsenal’s dual-track approach suggests a pragmatic strategy — one that balances ambition with adaptability in a highly competitive market.