Arsenal given transfer green light for Rodrygo alternative as bombshell statement released

Former Premier League winger and reported Arsenal transfer target Ademola Lookman has released a bombshell statement amid uncertainty over his future with Italian club Atalanta.

Arsenal are one of the clubs to have been linked with an interest in the Nigeria international over the last two summer transfer windows. However, it appears Inter have seemingly taken a lead in any race to sign the London-born forward.

The Italian side are said to have made a bid of €45 million (£39.3m), including add-ons to their Serie A rivals for the player. That has, however, been turned down by the club, speaking a response from Lookman.

The former Fulham and Everton man has confirmed that he has now handed in a transfer request in a statement released on social media.

“Over the past three years at Atalanta, I’ve given absolutely everything. Not just as a footballer, but as a person,” it read.

“I’ve always worn the shirt with pride and tried to represent this club and the city of Bergamo with heart, passion and dedication.

“I came here with the hope of helping this special club grow and together, we’ve created memories that will stay with me forever. “Winning the Europa League and standing shoulder to shoulder with my teammates that night in Dublin celebrating with our fans was one of the proudest moments of my career so far. It still gives me goosebumps thinking about it.

“Atalanta, and especially its supporters, have become a part of me. This place has felt like home from the moment I arrived, and I’ve always tried to repay that love – even in moments where things haven’t been easy behind the scenes.

“That’s what makes writing this so hard. I have loved every moment but feel that now, after three wonderful years in Bergamo, it is the right time to move on and experience a new adventure. There have been numerous clubs approach Atalanta in the past and I have previously always stayed loyal. However, myself and the ownership of the club have been in agreement that now is the right time and the club were clear with me that if a fair offer came in thay would allow me to move.”

He added: “I can confirm I have now handed in a formal transfer request.

“Even throughout the extremely difficult moments I’ve endured, many of which have remained private and confidential, I have always tried to put the club, the fans and the team first and hoped it would not get to this, but I unfortunately feel there is now little choice.

“To the fans – the heartbeat of this club – I want to say this: I’m truly sorry it’s come to this. I hope you can understand this incredibly difficult situation. The support you have always given me has been incredible and the bond we have created together is special.

“I hope to work together with the club to find an amicable solution for all parties as soon as possible. With Love and gratitude, Ademola.”

The development could catch the eye of Arsenal, amid links to Real Madrid winger Rodrygo. Lookman’s willingness to make a move away from Atalanta could potentially encourage them to reignite their interest in the winger.

If Atalanta now accept a similar fee to the Inter offer, he would be a cheaper alternative. The 27-year-old has also previously played in the Premier League for Everton.