Andrea Berta told to forget about Eberechi Eze alternative as Arsenal transfer plan explained

Ademola Lookman has emerged as a potential Arsenaltarget this month as he seeks an exit from Atalanta, though former Gunners star Jermaine Pennant believes the club should maintain their pursuit of Eberechi Eze instead.

The former Everton and Charlton winger has been touted as an alternative to Crystal Palace's Eze. Following Ethan Nwaneri's contract extension, it's been suggested that Mikel Artetaand Andrea Berta may turn their attention to a player capable of operating in wider areas - a role Lookman could potentially fill.

The Serie A star has grown increasingly frustrated with his current club's unwillingness to sanction his departure, despite previous assurances from the board. Consequently, the 27-year-old has submitted a transfer request.

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However, Pennant believes acquiring Lookman wouldn't significantly strengthen Arsenal's title ambitions. The former Liverpool midfielder suggests he would merely provide squad depth rather than the quality needed to challenge for the championship.

"Lookman is a good player and he's done well at Atalanta but you've got to think about whether he can do it consistently in the Premier League and if he's proven in the league. Is he much better than [Leandro] Trossard?," Pennant told AceOdds.com, as per the Mirror.

"He'd be another signing that might add strength in depth but it wouldn't make me think Arsenal are going to now win the league. Arsenal need top players now."

Pennant has voiced his opinion that Arsenal should shift their attention towards signing Eze, suggesting he would alleviate the creative pressure on skipper Martin Odegaard. "Personally Arsenal should be signing Eze," Pennant remarked.

"He adds a lot more flair in the midfield. In the past I feel as though they've relied heavily on Odegaard to be the creator around the box. Eze fits the creative mould perfectly. He can bring players in, he can assist, he picks the ball up and drives past players and we know he can score goals. For me, that's a very good signing and a signing that elevates Arsenal."

"Look at the figures being handed around for players," he added. "£70m, £80m, even in the £90m’s. Eze at £68m is good business. You’d be happy with that. Liverpool sold Diaz for £65m. If you want to be competitive you’ve got to start paying the bucks and Arsenal are resistant to spending high but you’ve got to pay the money for Eze."