Arsenal's move for Jorginho could see Albert Sambi Lokonga depart the Emirates Stadium amid his lack of game time.
Lokonga joined ahead of last season but has struggled for opportunities this campaign amid the Gunners' charge to the top of the Premier League. Granit Xhaka, Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard have been Mikel Arteta 's preferred midfield partnership.
With that trio staying mostly free of injury and suspension, Lokonga has been forced to make do with a place on the bench. But he could now be offered an escape route, with Jorginho set to arrive at the Gunners on deadline day.
Arsenal are closing in on a £12million move for the Chelsea star, which would put Lokonga further down the pecking order. With Jorginho on his way to the Emirates, Arteta may be ready to let Lokonga depart on loan.
According to the Daily Mail, that has peaked the interest of Crystal Palace, who are now in talks with Arsenal over a potential loan deal for the 23-year-old. His opportunities will be increased if he moves to Selhurst Park and Arsenal will hope he will be able to discover his best form.
Palace currently sit mid-table in the Premier League, but have won just once since the top-flight returned following the World Cup. That has led to boss Patrick Vieira turning to his former club in a bid to boost their fortunes.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Should Albert Sambi Lokonga join Crystal Palace? Comment below.
The Frenchman has limited options in central midfield and has been eyeing Chelsea star Conor Gallagher for much of the window. But with Gallagher not keen on a return to the Eagles, Vieira is now turning his attention to Lokonga.
Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has hailed the decision to sign Jorginho, insisting his experience could prove to be key as the Gunners chase their first title win for 19 years. "I think it's outstanding. You're buying experience as well, he's won big trophies, he is a proper holding midfield player," he told Sky Sports.
"We're only talking two years ago him winning the Champions League, Italy winning the Euros, we were going 'why don't England produce one of these players'. Two years on, Arsenal are getting him.
"I know he's two years older, but he's so intelligent, he'll protect the back four and he just gives it simple. He'll be feeding Odegaard, he'll be feeding Saka and Martinelli. For me, he's a top signing.
"And he knows the game. He knows he won't be playing every week. He knows if everybody's fit he won't be playing. But he'll bring that experience and calmness, he never panics on the ball."
