Arsenal in ‘talks’ to sign £43m-rated forward as Newcastle accelerate bold Joao Pedro alternative transfer
Premier League Clubs Begin Transfer Business Ahead of 2025/26 Campaign
As the dust settles on the 2024/25 season, clubs across the Premier League are already turning their attention to the summer transfer window in a bid to strengthen their squads for the upcoming campaign. With the 2025/26 season fast approaching, recruitment departments are working around the clock to identify and secure new talent that can make a difference.
One of the most notable developments involves Arsenal, who narrowly missed out on the Premier League title last season, finishing behind eventual champions Liverpool. Determined to bridge the gap and push for silverware next year, Mikel Arteta’s side are looking to bolster their attacking options. According to CaughtOffside, the Gunners have reignited negotiations to sign Nigerian international winger Ademola Lookman from Serie A side Atalanta.
Lookman, 27, has enjoyed a prolific spell in Italy since making the switch from RB Leipzig in 2022. The dynamic forward has scored an impressive 52 goals in 117 appearances for the Bergamo-based club, including 20 goals in the most recent season alone. His electrifying pace, close control, and eye for goal have made him a standout performer in Serie A, attracting attention from clubs across Europe. Atalanta have reportedly set a price tag of £43 million, and while they are eager to keep hold of their star man, they may struggle to fend off interest from the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Chelsea and Manchester United are both monitoring developments surrounding Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The Mirror reports that the Argentine shot-stopper is being valued at around £45 million, as questions linger over his long-term future at Villa Park. Martinez, now 32, played a crucial role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar and has established himself as one of the most consistent goalkeepers in the Premier League.
Since joining Villa in 2020, Martinez has racked up 212 appearances in all competitions and has been a key figure in their resurgence under Unai Emery. However, with interest mounting from two of England’s biggest clubs, Villa may soon be forced into a decision about his future. Before his move to the Midlands, Martinez spent over 10 years at Arsenal but struggled to nail down the No.1 spot, often playing backup before eventually departing for regular first-team action.
Elsewhere, Newcastle United are preparing for a busy summer as they ready themselves for a return to the Champions League. One player firmly on their radar is PSV Eindhoven winger Johan Bakayoko. Sky Sports reports that the Belgian international is high on Eddie Howe’s shortlist as the Magpies seek to add more attacking firepower to their squad.
Bakayoko, 22, has steadily risen through the ranks at PSV since joining the club in 2019. Now a regular starter, he has made 185 appearances and scored 33 goals, becoming one of the Eredivisie’s most promising young talents. His flair, creativity, and versatility on the wing make him an attractive option for Newcastle, who are aiming to improve squad depth ahead of a demanding European campaign.
With the summer window heating up, Premier League clubs are wasting no time in identifying key targets. As negotiations intensify and new names emerge, fans can expect plenty of twists and turns before the new season kicks off.