Arsenal’s attack may be one of the most technically gifted in the Premier League, but it is not without its shortcomings.
Pre-season has shown signs of promise — Kai Havertz looks sharper, and Bukayo Saka remains reliable on the right — but there are still questions to be asked about the balance of Mikel Arteta’s front line, particularly on the left flank.
Gabriel Martinelli continues to start there, but his inconsistency in one-v-one scenarios has become increasingly obvious against well-organised defences.
Leandro Trossard offers a more composed final ball and better decision-making, yet recurring fitness issues and his tendency to drift infield often leave Arsenal without width or penetration in the left channel.
Reiss Nelson, meanwhile, remains a fringe option and has been linked with a move to Fulham.
Arsenal’s need for another explosive winger — ideally someone naturally suited to the left — has been evident for some time.
The club explored a move for Eberechi Eze earlier in the window, but Crystal Palace’s high valuation has complicated that route.
Instead, their attention should now turn to a player who has already attracted concrete interest from abroad: Ademola Lookman.
Lookman’s resurgence in Italy has been nothing short of impressive. Across the 2023–24 campaign, he delivered 17 goals and 10 assists for Atalanta in all competitions — capped off by a famous hat-trick in the Europa League final that secured silverware and global attention.
Some assumed it was a one-off breakout year, but he followed it up with another 27 goal contributions in 2024–25, once again showing his ability to influence games from the left-hand side.
Inter Milan were convinced enough to submit a €45 million bid this summer, which Atalanta rejected. Negotiations continue, with Atalanta holding firm on their €50 million valuation.
Arsenal should see this as an opening to move in. Unlike other names often thrown around in the market, Lookman is proven in two of Europe’s top five leagues and has matured into a composed, consistent attacking threat.
He has pace, directness, and a clear eye for goal. He creates his own chances, yet is also comfortable linking play — traits that would add a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack.
At 27, he is entering his peak, and the hunger to test himself at a higher level appears obvious. His reported frustration with Atalanta’s reluctance to accept Inter Milan’s bid only adds fuel to the fire.
Arsenal need depth and variety out wide. Inter’s failure gives them the chance. They should take it.
