English Premier League side Arsenal have been dealt a huge blow following Kai Havertz’s injury, and could return to sign Super Eagles forward before the end of the transfer window, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Gunners’ need for a striker over the years has been apparent as they’ve been second-best in the English top-flight over the past three seasons.
Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have led the lines for Mikel Arteta’s side in that time before they signed Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon this summer.
The Record FA Cup Champions will have to reschedule their squad planner as Havertz has picked up an injury that’ll see him stay out of action for a while.
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According to Sky Sports, the German midfielder has injured his knee and will be out for a while. Although the time is currently unknown, it’ll be revealed upon further assessment.
Arsenal considering Lookman bid
With Havertz out, the Gunners are caught in a dilemma and have to find a short-term replacement for the former Bayer 04 Leverkusen talisman.
As per Caught Offside, Arsenal are carefully monitoring the situation of Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman as they assess their attacking options in light of Havertz’s setback.
The 27-year-old has been on Arsenal’s radar for a while, and with Havertz injured, discussions within the Gunners hierarchy have intensified over whether to make a move for the CAF Player of the Year before the transfer window slams shut.
Lookman, on the other hand, has been frozen out at Atalanta, with his gaze fixated on a move to the San Siro. The ex-RB Leipzig man is keen on exiting Bergamo and attempted to force a move away from the club, skipping training and pre-season games.
Atalanta declined all of Inter Milan’s offers, and Christian Chivu’s side have pulled out negotiations with the 2024 UEFA Europa League winners for Lookman, leaving him stranded.
Mikel Arteta’s side are yet to submit a formal proposal, but Arsenal remain the only foreign club to have maintained contact with Lookman over the past few weeks.
The Gunners have been tracking his progress in Serie A, where he has established himself as one of the league’s best attackers.
Should Lookman move to Arsenal?
Havertz’s injury takes out two vital positions for Arsenal as the German operates as a false nine and an attacking midfielder.
On the left, Leandro Trossard is inconsistent, and Gabriel Martinelli has regressed massively, meaning an opportunity could open up for Lookman beyond the centre of the park.
While doubts over his playing time at the Emirates could arise, Lookman’s versatility sets him apart as he can operate optimally across several positions at the Frontline.
Additionally, the former Fulham winger could have a point to prove after several unimpressive spells in England earlier in his career.
Without a doubt, the Nigerian walks into Mikel Arteta’s starting eleven, but it is currently unknown if the Gunners will make a bid in the coming days.
Atalanta are willing to part ways with the one-time UEFA Europa League winner for around 50m. In the meantime, Lookman is in recovery from a calf injury and is training alone.
Arsenal legend, Ian Wright admitted he’d love to have the Super Eagles star at the Emirates Stadium, lauding Lookman’s impeccable journey to the top.