TMW: AC Milan open talks with Arsenal midfielder

AC Milan have reportedly opened talks with Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga. The Belgian could be available on loan.

AC Milan’s search for a new central midfielder is lasting much longer than expected. The Rossoneri were confident about their chances to sign Renato Sanches while Carney Chukwuemeka was the plan B. Neither player arrived so AC Milan are forced to look around for new alternatives.

According to reports from Tuttomercatoweb, the Rossoneri have opened talks for Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga. The 22-year-old joined the Gunners last summer from Anderlecht for a transfer fee of around 20 million euros.

Born in Verviers, Lokonga has chosen to play for the Belgian national team despite his Congolese origins. After a bright start at Arsenal, Lokonga lost his starting spot in Mikel Arteta’s starting eleven last season. He ended the year with 25 appearances across all competitions.

AC Milan have contacted the player’s entourage. The Rossoneri are interested to sign Lokonga on a permanent deal according to Tuttomercatoweb despite him being available on loan. At the Italian champions, Sambi would find an increasing number of Belgian players like Charles de Ketelaere, Divock Origi and his former teammate Alexis Saelemaekers.

Albert Sambi Lokonga was on AC Milan’s radar before his Arsenal switch. The Rossoneri had identified him as a replacement for Soualiho Meite but eventually were forced to settle for Tiemoue Bakayoko.

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