ARSENAL are reportedly in talks with AC Milan over a shock transfer exit for Albert Sambi Lokonga.
Football Italia claims the Belgian midfielder has emerged as Stefano Pioli’s top choice to replace Franck Kessie, who joined Barcelona on a free transfer earlier this summer.
Lokonga, 22, only signed for Arsenal a year ago from Anderlecht in a £17million deal.
But, despite making 24 appearances in all competitions, he struggled to make a lasting impression in Mikel Arteta’s system.
Lokonga now finds himself at the bottom of Arteta’s midfield pecking order.
And an escape to Milan could be on the cards this month.
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The Italian champions have already splashed £30m on Club Brugge forward Charles De Ketelaere.
They also raided Liverpool to snap up Divock Origi for nothing.
But they are yet to land a replacement for Kessie, a driving force in last season’s historic title win.
Lokonga displays many of the characteristics required to replicate the Ivorian’s box-to-box role.
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And Pioli reckons due to his young age, Lokonga has the potential to become a leading European midfielder.
Should Arsenal sell Lokonga, it could open the door for them to finally land Youri Tielemans.
The Leicester ace is out of contract next summer and available for £30million.
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But Arsenal are hoping to drive the asking price down as the transfer window nears its end.
And with Lokonga gone, there will be adequate space for his compatriot to fit in Arsenal’s squad.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
