Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga (23) runs with the ball during the first half against Orlando City at Exploria Stadium
Crystal Palace are ‘closing in’ on a loan move for Arsenal youngster Albert Sambi Lokonga, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Lowdown: Lokonga not a regular at Arsenal
The Gunners are flying this season but one player who has struggled to make an impact is Lokonga, with more experienced midfielders preferred by Mikel Arteta.
In fact, the 23-year-old has only managed to start two Premier League matches in 2022/23 to date, meaning a loan move elsewhere could do him good, especially with Jorginho incoming at the Emirates Stadium.
The Latest: Midfielder off to Palace?
Taking to Twitter, Romano claimed that Lokonga is on the verge of sealing a move to Selhurst Park:
“Crystal Palace are closing in on loan deal to sign Albert Sambi Lokonga from Arsenal, agreement completed also approved on player side
“Medical tests taking place during the afternoon, as @sr_collings reported.”
The Verdict: Good signing by Eagles
This could prove to be an inspired move for all parties, allowing Lokonga more regular playing time and improving Patrick Vieira’s squad depth in the process.
The Belgian has even been hailed as the ‘new Yaya Toure’ by none other than Burnley manager Vincent Kompany, not to mention now making 39 first-team appearances for Arsenal, largely holding his own in a team littered with top-class footballers.
Lokonga could now become a key man for Palace between the end of the season, with the £51,000-a-week midfielder someone who can adds legs and quality to the side, averaging a 94.3% pass completion rate in the league in 2022/23.
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