Reliable journo: Arsenal eye late swoop to hijack Euro giants' deal to sign £43m star

Arsenal are reportedly plotting a swoop to sign Atalanta star Ademola Lookman late in this transfer window, as per the transfer journalist Florian Plettenberg.

After making David Raya’s loan move permanent, the Gunners have signed Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna to bolster the backline. Additionally, they have agreed on a deal in principle with Real Sociedad to sign Mikel Merino to strengthen the midfield department.

Moreover, with Aaron Ramsdale’s future still uncertain, the North London club are looking to sign a new goalkeeper to replace the Englishman and have identified Espanyol’s Joan Garcia as the primary option.

However, writing on X, Plettenberg states that Arsenal could look to sign a new winger as well before next week’s deadline and are interested in Lookman.

The journalist claims that Paris Saint-Germain are also plotting a swoop for him and have already agreed on personal terms with him. Les Parisiens are in negotiations with La Dea over this deal but the two clubs are finding it difficult to reach an agreement so the move has now stalled.

Lookman to Arsenal

Plettenberg says that Arsenal closely monitoring the situation and are ready to hijack the move should PSG eventually fail to get the deal done.

Plettenberg wrote:

“Ademola Lookman has reached a total verbal agreement with Paris Saint-Germain. 26 y/o versatile striker wants to join #PSG with immediate effect. Paris in direct contact with Atalanta Bergamo but negotiations about a permanent deal currently stalling. Arsenal, closely monitoring the situation in case the deal falls through!”

Lookman is likely to cost around £43m so Arsenal will have to splash a sizable amount of money to lure him to the Emirates Stadium before the end of this transfer window.

The 26-year-old enjoyed a stellar campaign last term, helping his side win the Europa League title. He is a highly talented player and having already played for Fulham, Everton and Leicester City, he has experience of playing in the Premier League. So, the Nigerian could be a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal if they purchase him.

However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club eventually opt to make a concrete approach to sign him to bolster the attacking department.