Arsenal one step closer to Ademola Lookman transfer as £18m deal agreed

Arsenalmay have just been given fresh hope in the race to sign Atalanta star Ademola Lookman.

The Gunnershave been linked with a move for the Nigeria international over the last few months, albeit the rumours have quietened down in recent weeks.

Lookman's future has been thesubject of speculation ever since he helped guide Atalanta to their Europa League triumph in 2024, where he scored a hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta forced into four-year Arsenal transfer change after £70m double deal

READ MORE: Arsenal one step from unleashing Declan Rice as double transfer plan finally clear

Arsenal have been mentioned as a potential destination for Lookman in the past, and it seems that Atalanta may be preparing for the forward's departure.

The Athletic have reported that the Serie A club have agreed a deal to sign Southampton star Kamaldeen Sulemana. The report claims that the transfer fee will be €21.5million (£18.3million), including add-ons, with a €17.5million (£15million) initial fee.

Sulemana typically plays on the left wing for Southampton, and could play in a similar role once he completes a move to Atalanta.

As a result, the Italian club are either looking to provide depth to the position, or may be preparing for Lookman's possible departure.

Lookman also plays as a left wing, but is also capable of being used as a centre forward or on the right wing.

As a result, Atalanta could, in theory, start both Lookman and Sulemana in the same team next season if both players are part of their squad.

It remains to be seen if Arsenal do have a genuine interest in signing Lookman this summer.

The Gunners are in the market for reinforcements to their forward line, particularly at striker, with RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko a target.

Arsenal have also been linked with Real Madrid star Rodrygo, who is capable of playing on the left and right wing.