Arsenal have emerged as potential suitors for Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman, as the player’s proposed move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is presently stalling.
Bold Sports had earlier reported that Lookman had reached personal terms with PSG ahead of a potential move.
PSG’s pursuit of Lookman comes after their unsuccessful attempt to sign another Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen, from Napoli.
The Italian club’s €130m valuation has proved a stumbling block for potential suitors, including several Premier League teams.
SkySports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg however revealed on X, formerly Twitter, that negotiations between the French club and Atalanta have stalled.
“Ademola #Lookman has reached a total verbal agreement with Paris Saint-Germain,” Plettenberg wrote.
“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.”
Plettenberg however added that Arsenal are waiting in the wings should the deal fail to materialise.
“Arsenal, closely monitoring the situation in case the deal falls through!” he added.
The Gunners’ interest comes at a crucial time, with Eddie Nketiah potentially departing for Nottingham Forest. Lookman’s versatility in attack could provide valuable depth for Mikel Arteta’s squad as they continue to challenge for the EPL title after finishing second behind Manchester City in the last two seasons.
Last season’s Premier League runners-up are poised to pounce should PSG fail to agree terms with Atalanta for the 26-year-old Nigerian international.
Arsenal have already made two signings this season, confirming goalkeeper David Raya on a permanent deal after his loan spell from Brentford last season. They also signed Riccardo Calafiori from Italian side Bologna.
Lookman was the hero of Atalanta’s Europa League-winning campaign last season, scoring a hat-trick in their 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen in the final.
