Arsenal Newsnow: Reports indicate that Arsenal has rejected interest from Ligue 1 powerhouses AS Monaco in signing Belgian midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga

Arsenal Newsnow: Arsenal, a powerhouse in the Premier League, reportedly turned down a bid from AS Monaco for Belgian midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga during the current 2023 January transfer window. The 23-year-old forward signed with Arsenal in 2021 from Belgian club Anderlecht, although he has yet to get into Mikel Arteta’s starting lineup. Lokonga plays on a fairly regular basis for Arsenal. But he has yet to provide an assist or goal, has seen action in 39 games.

Arteta prefers to play Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka together in the middle of the pitch, relegating Lukonga to the substitutes’ bench. This season, the Gunners have excelled in the Premier League. Thus their manager has little incentive to make changes to his starting lineup.

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Arsenal Newsnow: What’s the matter?

This season, Lokonga has only been used in cup games and as a substitute sometimes. On Friday night, he started for Arsenal as they fell to Manchester City by a score of 1-0. His performance against City was indicative of why his career has stalled in north London.

It seemed likely that Lokonga’s placement contributed to Manchester City’s game-winning goal. At the end of the game, he stomped down the tunnel, earning the wrath of captain Martin Odegaard. It’s natural that the 23-year-old felt let down by his play. But his demeanour on the field didn’t win him many fans.

AS Monaco, a powerhouse in France’s top division has been active this month. They are interested in luring Lokonga away from his nightmare at Arsenal. They offered €8 million, but the Gunners rejected it. The Premier League leaders have an edge in contract discussions because of the 23-year-old’s long-term commitment to the Emirates, which extends until 2026.

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What’s next for the Gunners?

Arteta’s desire to retain Lokonga makes sense considering how close the Premier League standings are at this point in the season. After taking a hit against Manchester City, Partey will have an MRI on Saturday to check out the damage. Arsenal’s depth will be tested if he is out for an extended period.

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Despite some promising moments, Lokonga has yet to get into Arsenal’s starting lineup. However, Arteta does get some depth in a crucial position thanks to his addition.

Leaving the Emirates would be great for the player’s career since Ligue 1 is far less physical than the Premier League. However, it seems that won’t happen, at least for the time being. It’s unclear if other deals, like the one involving Moises Caicedo, would sway Arsenal in the last days of the window.

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