Arsenal have reportedly made an initial offer to sign a new forward as the transfer window draws to a close.
**Arsenal’s Transfer Strategy**
After securing a 2-0 victory against Wolves on the opening day of the Premier League season, Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar are still looking to make moves in the final days of the transfer window. However, with the recent signing of Riccardo Calafiori, it appears Arsenal is operating on a one-in, one-out basis, meaning further signings may require player sales.
The closest to leaving the club is 25-year-old striker Eddie Nketiah, who is in advanced negotiations for a move to Nottingham Forest in a deal expected to exceed £30 million. Nketiah’s departure could pave the way for Mikel Merino to join Arsenal from Real Sociedad, a move that has been anticipated for much of the summer.
Other players could also be on their way out in the final days of the window, with Aaron Ramsdale linked to a move to Wolves in search of more regular playing time. Additionally, there has been speculation surrounding the futures of Reiss Nelson and Jakub Kiwior, with Kiwior not featuring in the matchday squad for the opening game and Nelson remaining an unused substitute.
Arsenal had previously been linked with Nico Williams earlier in the summer, but it now appears they have identified an alternative target.
**Arsenal’s Bid for a Forward**
Reports suggest Arsenal has submitted an offer for Europa League hero Ademola Lookman as they aim to strengthen their attacking options. Lookman, who scored a hat-trick in the Europa League final to help Atalanta defeat Bayer Leverkusen, had an impressive domestic season with the Italian club.
With two years remaining on his £38,000-a-week contract at Atalanta, Lookman has attracted interest from several clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain. However, it is Arsenal who have reportedly made the first move. According to reports from Italy relayed by The Daily Mail, the Gunners have offered £42 million plus defender Jakub Kiwior in a bid to secure the forward.
The Mail also suggests that Arsenal’s offer “stands a chance of being successful” because Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini is a fan of Kiwior, who can play as a left center-back or left-back.
Although Lookman has primarily played centrally for Atalanta, the 26-year-old is versatile and spent much of his Premier League career on the left wing. While it is not clear if Atalanta has responded to Arsenal’s offer, any response will need to come quickly with the transfer window closing soon.
Given that Arsenal’s summer spending is likely to approach £80 million with the expected arrival of Merino, an additional investment of over £40 million on a forward might be within the club’s budget. However, it remains to be seen whether Lookman will be the player they ultimately secure.
