Bukayo Saka told Arsenal to sign Nigerian forward ahead of Liverpool

Arsenal’s talented winger Bukayo Saka, is set to play a pivotal role in potentially swaying Atalanta and Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman towards a transfer to the Emirates stadium next summer, ThePapers.ng reports.

Both players share a Nigerian heritage, which could strengthen their connection and impact the decision-making process.

Lookman, known for his speed and skill on the ball, would add significant depth to Arsenal’s attacking lineup, making this influence from Saka all the more critical as the club looks to bolster its squad for the upcoming season.

Arsenal’s interest in Ademola Lookman may appear surprising on the surface. After all, this is a player once deemed surplus to requirements at Everton and Leipzig, drifting between top-flight sides without leaving a lasting imprint.

But football thrives on reinvention, and Lookman, crowned African Player of the Year in 2024, has carved a compelling second act in Serie A with Atalanta. Now, the 27-year-old may be preparing to bring that rebirth full circle — back to the Premier League.

According to sources within Arsenal’s organization, Bukayo Saka has been actively advocating for the club to pursue the acquisition of Nigerian player Ademola Lookman from Atalanta. Saka has engaged in discussions regarding the potential contributions that Lookman could make to the team for the upcoming season.

“Lookman is likely to move to Arsenal, there are underground discussions in Arsenal, and Bukayo Saka is looking forward to see the move happen as soon as possible due to LKookman’s quality and maybe because he’s also a Nigerian”, the source said.

Lookman’s resurgence in Italy has been nothing short of remarkable. His 17 goals and 10 assists in 2023/24 were not simply numbers on a score sheet — they were milestones in a narrative of redemption. His Europa League final hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, halting Xabi Alonso’s side’s historic unbeaten streak, immortalised him in Bergamo folklore.

Still, statistics only tell part of the story. His performances have blended directness, intelligence, and composure — qualities that once flickered inconsistently but now blaze with purpose. It’s no coincidence that Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg confirms Arsenal have “added him to their shortlist”. Nor is it surprising that Lookman, despite a contract running until 2027, is reportedly “searching for a new club for the summer.”

There’s no doubting Lookman’s pedigree now. He’s no longer the inconsistent winger from his Everton or Fulham days. He’s a continental champion, an African Player of the Year, and a genuine match-winner on the European stage. His hat-trick in the Europa League final was the kind of elite, big-game moment Arsenal have too often lacked in recent seasons.

Of course, the price tag of £51 million may raise some eyebrows. But in today’s market — especially considering his versatility and current form — that’s arguably good value. What really excites fans is how he might complement the squad. With Martinelli blowing hot and cold, Leandro Trossard not quite dominating games, Lookman could provide quality depth and a new dimension.

Additional reports from Yahoo Sports