Arsenal and co risk missing out on exciting star after 'transfer request handed in'

Arsenal are set to be among a number of Premier League teams who may live to regret not going in for Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman. Despite their spending spree this summer, the Gunners are currently pursuing Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze.

However, the two clubs are struggling to reach an agreement over a fee. Palace reportedly want £67.5million for the FA Cup winner, and are demanding the majority of the fee up front. Talks between all parties are continuing, but Mikel Arteta's hopes of a deal appear to be uncertain.

Now, an elite alternative is also set to slip through their fingers. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Lookman, 27, has reportedly handed in a transfer request at Atalanta amid links with a host of European clubs.

It's already been widely reported that the Nigerian international has his heart set on joining Inter Milan. The Serie A giants have already rejected a bid in the region of £39m, and Lookman is now waiting to see if they'll increase their offer.

Having scored 52 goals in 117 games for the Serie A club since joining in 2022, Lookman has the credentials to boost Arteta's attacking options. He was also pivotal to Atalanta's 2023/24 Europa League win, excelling over two legs in their semi-final win against Liverpool.

He would also have been a potentially cheaper option than Eze. Arsenal have also been linked with Real Madrid star Rodrygo, but the club's insistence on holding out for £89m is proving a stumbling block.

Lookman has previous experience in England, having started his senior career with stints at Charlton and Everton. After joining RB Leipzig in 2019, he also had loan stints at Fulham and Leicester City.

He could also have potentially been an ideal signing for the likes of Aston Villa and West Ham, who have been chasing a winger this summer. The two clubs are now said to be battling it out for Galatasaray wide man Baris Alper Yilmaz.