Arsenal can complete double transfer deal with Monaco

Arsenal are in talks with Monaco over the sale of Folarin Balogun but potential for double deal has emerged after Brighton breakthrough amid Albert Sambi Lokonga links

Albert Sambi Lokonga’s future at Arsenal remains unresolved with just over a week remaining in the transfer window. The Belgian international was not a part of the squad that travelled to the United States on tour this summer.

However, from an Arsenal perspective, only a dry loan or a move with an option at a significant valuation would suffice. There were obstacles with this and Brighton however.

A repeat with Lokonga would not be ideal and on the flip side, Arsenal would not want the Belgian performing brilliantly and raising his value significantly only for the Seagulls to activate a relatively low buyout option in his loan deal. Loans have not worked out for the likes of Nicolas Pepe and Cedric Soares as the Gunners have found out this summer in their attempts to move them on.

If Lokonga is to leave, football.london understands that Ligue 1 is a likely destination. One club in particular is Monaco who could lose Youssouf Fofana this summer with Nottingham Forest already submitting a serious bid.

Fofana and Lokonga are similar in the sense their better role is in the number eight position, despite often being deployed in a deeper defensive midfield role. Monaco are already in talks with Arsenal for a deal to sign Folarin Balogunfootball.london understands with an improved second offer expected to be submitted.