Lookman absent from training amidst Arsenal’s rumoured €50m plus Kiwior bid | OneFootball

Arsenal‘s pursuit of Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman has intensified as the player skipped training during the week amidst reports of a potential bid from the Gunners.

The London club is reportedly prepared to offer €50 million, along with defender Jakub Kiwior, in exchange for the Nigerian international.

Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman celebrates after scoring their second goal during the UEFA Europa League final football match between Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen at the Dublin Arena stadium, in Dublin, on May 22, 2024. (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

This development follows Lookman’s conspicuous absence from Atalanta’s training session on Wednesday, adding fuel to the transfer rumours even though he returned on Thursday.

Transfer specialist Alfredo Pedulla has revealed that Arsenal’s interest is genuine, with a bid potentially including bonuses on top of the €50 million cash offer.

Moreover, the possible inclusion of Kiwior, a player Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini reportedly admires, could sweeten the deal for the Italian side.

However, Atalanta seem to be playing hardball, demanding a sum in the range of €65-70 million for Lookman.

Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman attends a training session on the eve of the UEFA Super Cup football match Real Madrid v Atalanta Bergamo in Warsaw, Poland, on August 13, 2024. (Photo by SERGEI GAPON/AFP via Getty Images)

The player’s current contract with the Serie A club runs until 2025, with an option for an additional year.

Additionally, Liverpool are also rumoured to be interested in the winger, further complicating the transfer saga.

Lookman’s impressive performances last season, which included a hat-trick in the Europa League final, have made him a sought-after target.

The 26-year-old’s versatility across the frontline and his ability to score crucial goals have caught the eye of several top clubs.

While Lookman’s absence from training has sparked transfer speculation, it’s worth noting that Atalanta are also reportedly in talks to extend his contract. Whether his absence is a negotiating tactic, a sign of an impending transfer or something completely unrelated remains unclear.

As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Lookman’s situation. Will Arsenal’s €50 million plus Kiwior offer be enough to tempt Atalanta? Or will the Italian club hold out for their asking price or even convince Lookman to stay?