Belgian journalist confirms the truth of Lokonga-Milan reports | OneFootball

Reports linking Albert Sambi Lokonga with a move to AC Milan were quickly shut down on Wednesday afternoon, with the player keen to stay at Arsenal.

LONDON, ENGLAND: Albert Sambi Lokonga of Arsenal is challenged by Tyrick Mitchell of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Arsenal FC at Selhurst Park on August 05, 2022. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Around midday on Wednesday, TMW journalist Marco Conterio reported that Milan’s next summer target was Albert Sambi Lokonga, with the club making contact over the midfielder – whose departure from Arsenal wasn’t ruled out.

TMW don’t have the strongest reputation for reliability on Arsenal news, and the information was quickly shot down by Belgian football reporter Sacha Tavolieri.

Tavolieri claims Milan won’t sign another midfielder unless they sell Tiemoue Bakayoko first. Even if they sell Bakayoko and push for Lokonga, the midfielder is clear that he wants to stay at Arsenal and Mikel Arteta believes in him.

But Milan aren’t likely to make a move for Lokonga at all, as they prioritise signing a new defender.

This isn’t the first time reports have suggested the Belgian midfielder is set to stay at Arsenal this season. Tavolieri and Football.London reported the same thing back in June.

It makes sense, given Arsenal have been pretty light in midfield in recent seasons, even last year without European football.

Lokonga could have a key role to play for Arsenal this season, and that should keep him happy as well.

Lokonga made 23 appearances for Arsenal in his debut campaign, 16 of which were starts, despite having established and experienced midfielders ahead of him.

At 22 years old, the Belgium international will hope this is just the start of a long career with the Gunners.