Arsenal are reportedly willing to offer Juventus Albert Sambi Lokonga in a part-exchange deal for long-term target Manuel Locatelli.
According to Calciomercatoweb, Arsenal are pondering offering Alberto Sambi Lokonga in a part-exchange deal for Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli. The Gunners were previously interested in a move for the 24-year-old Italian international, only for the Serie A giants to pip them in 2021.
Arsenal sit on top of the Premier League table, with one point separating them from current holders and title favourites Manchester City. Mikel Arteta has built a solid squad, who are talked about in the mix for the domestic championship. But the Arsenal manager would like further additions to strengthen.
The Gunners kept hold of their position at the top of the table by beating arch-rivals Tottenham at the Emirates on Saturday. One of the standout performers was Thomas Partey, but the Ghanaian’s fitness record has started to worry Arteta. With Mohamed Elneny injured, Arteta does not have proper cover in the squad.
Arsenal tried to address this issue in the summer of 2021 when they wanted Manuel Locatelli from Sassuolo. Despite a prolonged pursuit, they could not match the lure of Juventus at that time, with the Bianconeri managing to secure the Italian international’s signature.
Despite impressing in his first campaign, Locatelli is yet to nail down a permanent position in Massimiliano Allegri’s setup. The 24-year-old is thought to be outside of Allegri’s plans at Juventus.
The 24-year-old Italian international could be courted by Arsenal again if his situation does not change. Arsenal failed to bring in Douglas Luiz on deadline day but could go back for the Brazilian. Those reports indicate they are in for a new midfielder. However, if Locatelli becomes available, they could switch their attention away from the Aston Villa midfielder.
Locatelli is reportedly valued at €30 million, and Arsenal are thought to be open to offering one of their players in a part-exchange deal. Albert Sambi Lokonga is the player the Gunners are willing to send over. The Belgian has not been an automatic starter under Arteta, which may force him to consider his options.
Lokonga did have interest coming from Italy in the summer, but his agents reiterated their stance to stay put. However, that could change next summer if he remains on the periphery of Arsenal’s first-team squad.
The 24-year-old Italian international would suit Arteta’s system due to his ability to play in a defensive midfield position and further ahead. Whether Locatelli or Juventus would be open to dealing with Arsenal remains to be seen. Either way, the midfielder could be a great addition to the Gunners.
