Arsenal will trigger an option for a one-year extension in Mohamed Elneny's contract football.london understands. The Gunners confirmed earlier on Tuesday that the Egyptian is set for a significant spell on the sidelines after a knee injury sustained in training that could rule him out for the season.
This created some questions over Elneny's immediate future following the arrival of Jorginho from Chelsea. Arsenal confirmed the signature of the Italian international with hours to spare on transfer deadline day adding to the competition Elneny faces in the middle of the park.
However, football.london understands that the Gunners will take up an option to extend the 30-year-old's deal, which is due to expire at the end of this season, by a further 12 months. It is thought that Elneny is a highly popular member of the dressing room who is admired for his leadership qualities in Arsenal's young squad. The decision is not thought to impact Arsenal's pursuit of Declan Rice who is still their main target for the summer.
READ MORE: Arsenal announce Jorginho transfer as midfielder makes £12m Chelsea deadline day switch
Elsewhere the Gunners are in ongoing talks with Crystal Palace over a loan move for Albert Sambi Lokonga. The Belgian is thought to have had his medical in south London earlier on Tuesday and Palace are hopeful the deal can be done before the January transfer window closes at 11pm.
Cedric Soares could also head out of the Emirates on loan to Fulham. football.london understands Marco Silva's side are pushing to sign Brighton's Shane Duffy on a permanent basis in order to free up space for Cedric to join on loan for the remainder of the season. The deal would see Fulham cover the Portugal international's near-£100,000 per week wages until the end of the season.
READ NEXT:
Arsenal make Declan Rice transfer decision as Jorginho nears £12m January deadline day switch
Jorginho Arsenal shirt number 'leaked' as Edu agrees £12m Chelsea transfer on deadline day
Fulham still favourites to sign Cedric from Arsenal despite late interest from two other clubs
Arsenal cannot copy enviable but scattergun Brighton transfer strategy amid Moises Caicedo bid
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
