Arsenal will turn their attentions to Albert Sambi Lokonga after completing a £50million deal for their first summer signing Ben White.
football.london understands an agreement with Brighton is close with White understood to have agreed personal terms over the move to the Emirates and Lokonga is the signing they will turn to after.
The 21-year-old has been heavily scouted by the club - and Mikel Arteta is believed to be a keen admirer of the Belgian U21 international.
Many regard him as one of the best prospects to have come through Anderlecht's esteemed academy in recent years and a player who could define the future of Belgian football for the next decade.
Like Lokonga Manchester City legend Vincent Kompany also came through the ranks at Anderlecht and he is currently the head coach of the club.
One of the greatest Premier League defenders and captains this century, Kompany has played an integral role in the development of Lokonga, and if his verdict is anything to go by Arsenal would be getting an impressive addition.
Speaking to Voetbal Belgie, Kompany endorsed his young protege back in February.
“With his qualities at his age, he stands out for me,” Kompany said.
“Will Sambi win his duels? Is he improving his defensive work? You ask yourself these questions as a coach. Well, I’ve seen him make a lot of progress in that area.”
In February, Kompany predicted Lokonga could even have a chance of representing Belgium at Euro 2020 and tipped him for a big move in the summer.
“Who knows, Sambi may even make the national selection for the European Championship. It would give him a chance to secure a top transfer in the long term – hopefully not too early,” he said.
In the end, Lokonga only made the preliminary Belgium squad before being cut from the final team. He is yet to make an appearance for his country at senior level, but a debut should be on the horizon - as could that transfer Kompany alludes to.
At 21 years old, Lokonga has already captained the senior Anderlecht side and with Arsenal needing a defensive midfielder, the Belgian ace could be an astute signing for the club.
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