Arsenal technical director Edu has taken a step closer to finally signing Manuel Locatelli. The 24-year-old midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium for some time as Mikel Arteta looks to further bolster his midfield.
A deal failed to materialise and Locatelli joined Juventus from Sassuolo instead. With the Gunners desperate for a midfielder, Fabio Vieira was signed from Porto and they also explored a late move for Douglas Luiz, which fell through.
But, it seems as if the north London side still hold interest in the Italy international and move could be on the cards in January. According to Italian outlet Calcio Mercato Web, Arsenal are preparing a straight swap in a bid to finally welcome Locatelli to London Colney.
READ MORE: Gabriel Martinelli outlines huge career double dream in potential Arsenal transfer warning
The report states that Albert Sambi Lokonga is set to go the other way, subject to the Old Lady's approval. Both the Belgian and the Italian are reportedly valued at £26million and, with neither commanding regular game-time at their respective clubs, a move could be completed in a swift fashion.
The 22-year-old has featured just 31 times for Arteta's side since arriving from Anderlecht last year for a fee in the region of £15million. Despite a bright start to life in north London, Lokonga has struggled to force himself into the Arsenal starting-eleven.
And, as a result, the midfielder has been encouraged to leave in order to fuel his development by Kevin Campbell. As quoted by HITC, the former Arsenal striker said: "He’s probably not where he needs to be in his development because he probably needs more game time.
"He’s only played three games this season. If Partey’s fit, then he’s out of the team and he’s probably only going to get starts in the Europa League. So, Sambi isn’t probably where he (should be)."
Campbell added. "Do you remember in the (Amazon's All Or Nothing )documentary where he was bleating about not playing and stuff? Then, Eddie (Nketiah) turned around and said ‘well, I am not playing, so you shut up and don’t moan’.
"But it’s because he wants to play. He’s a young man who is used to playing. Is he where he should be in his development? Probably not because he needs game time. I think he has done pretty well in that midfield area, considering he doesn’t play. He’s more progressive than Elneny."
READ NEXT:
Takehiro Tomiyasu to be granted Arsenal request by Mikel Arteta during defining six-week period
Thierry Henry has told Mikel Arteta why Arsenal must intercept Chelsea's £56m bargain transfer
Arsenal director resigns as Mikel Arteta set to receive further backing at board level
Arsenal's next six Premier League fixtures compared to Chelsea, Tottenham, Man Utd and Man City
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
