Arsenal reach Lokonga decision with Arteta plan clear amid double midfield coup

Arsenal have a clear plan in mind for Albert Sambi Lokonga despite their midfield receiving a recent double boost with a third potentially on the way.

The Gunners were scrambling around for midfield reinforcements in the winter window. Injuries and AFCON absences had left Mikel Arteta light in the engine room. A move to Juventus’ Arthur Melo was touted, though disagreement over the length of the Brazilian’s loan switch laid waste to a deal.

Fast forward to present day and Arsenal’s midfield ranks look a whole lot healthier.

Mohamed Elneny signed a new contract in late-May. More eye-catchingly, the Gunners wrapped up an initial £30m deal to sign FC Porto ace, Fabio Vieira.

That double boost had led to speculation over the future of Albert Sambi Lokonga.

The Belgian, 22, did not make the impact many had hoped to see in his maiden season in north London. And with his former manager at Anderlecht, Vincent Kompany, landing the Burnley job, talk had swelled over a potential loan switch.

However, according to Football London, Arsenal will not part ways with the central midfielder this summer.

Lokonga plan emerges

Instead, the club hope to use the Europa League as the ideal proving grounds for Lokonga.

Playing the fringe and younger elements of Arteta’s squad in that competition should have the dual benefits of helping their lesser lights develop while also keeping the frontline stars fresh for the league.

Arsenal’s midfield will therefore boast the likes of Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka, Lokonga, Elneny, Martin Odegaard and Vieira next season.

Leicester’s Youri Tielemans could yet be added to the group. However, David Ornstein recently dampened talk of a £25m move with Arsenal’s priorities now shifting to the final third.

Arsenal right to pass on Tielemans?

The Foxes ace has been one of the Premier League’s most capable and consistent midfielders over the last three years.

The only reason his reported price tag is so low stems from his contract status. The Belgian, 25, has just one year remaining on his deal at the King Power.

It’s fair to say Arsenal’s needs in the final third are greater than in midfield. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was never replaced, while Alexandre Lacazette has returned to Lyon.

The likes of Gabriel Jesus and Raphinha are being targeted and both would be stellar additions.

However, a player of Tielemans’ calibre should not be overlooked, especially as he’s available for a fraction of his true value at present.