Arsenal are making a bold move to hijack Inter Milan’s pursuit of Nigeria international Ademola Lookman by offering a player-plus-cash deal to Atalanta, Footynaija.com reports.
The Gunners are ready to place around €45 million on the table alongside Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus in exchange for the 27-year-old winger, according to Bologna SN.
Lookman, currently absent without leave from Atalanta as he pushes for an exit, has already handed in a transfer request. He had agreed personal terms with Inter, but the Serie A club and Atalanta have failed to find common ground in protracted negotiations.
The Percassi family, who own Atalanta, are standing firm, insisting the forward will only be sold abroad and on their terms. Arsenal’s bid not only matches their financial demands but also offers the lure of a proven Premier League striker in Jesus, who is keen on a fresh challenge in Italy after an injury-hit spell in north London.
While Inter remain in the frame, the Nerazzurri may struggle to compete with Arsenal’s combined financial package and star-player swap.
Interestingly, Nottingham Forest have also emerged as a possible destination for Lookman.