Liverpool and Arsenal set for transfer tussle to sign 27-year-old Serie A attacker: Reports
Liverpool and Arsenal are reportedly going to get into a transfer tussle for the signing of Atalanta attacker Ademola Lookman. This is according to a report from Todo Fichajes, who claims that Newcastle United are also showing an interest in the Nigeria international (via Caught OffSide).
These links seem to have arisen on the back of Lookman's good performances for his Italian employers this season. So far in the campaign, the 27-year-old has made 19 appearances across competitions, bagging 11 goals and five assists.
The position that he features in, which is right behind the striker, might be an area that Mikel Arteta is looking to strengthen. The Gunners struggled in the absence of Martin Odegaard, who spent about two months on the sidelines due to injury this season.
Meanwhile, the Reds are also looking for players who fit this profile, with Arne Slot's team largely comprising box-to-box midfielders. Lookman himself may see the move to Anfield as more beneficial because of the lack of players in this profile.
On top of that, the Merseysiders are poised to challenge for the Premier League title this season as they currently sit atop the standings. They're two points clear of second-placed Chelsea, with a game in hand.
It is unlikely that Lookman will be preferred over Odegaard in the creative midfield role with Arsenal. However, he does offer versatility and can be deployed out wide if necessary.
With Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard failing to lock down a position on the left flank, there may be an opportunity for Lookman to become a first-choice player in that position.
Arsenal and Liverpool chasing Barcelona winger - Reports
Arsenal and Liverpool are still said to chasing a move for Barcelona winger Raphinha. This is as per a report from TBR Football, who claim that the Gunners have gotten in touch with the player's entourage over a move to the Emirates Stadium (via 90Min).
Despite doubts over his form last year, the Brazilian has been sensational this campaign for the Catalan outfit. He's played 24 matches across competitions for the Blaugrana this year, bagging 17 goals and 10 assists.
Raphinha primarily operates on the left, where the Gunners are clearly unsure about the starting slot. However, Liverpool also seems to be undecided between Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo on that flank.
With his contract at Camp Nou running till the summer of 2027, it is unlikely that Raphinha will be seeking a move to either Premier League side for now.