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Bailey Keogh

Man City identify Sambi Lokonga upgrade for Arsenal with midfield star ready to make switch

Arsenal can solve their midfield issues through Renato Sanches, and he is a midfielder that has already been identified by Manchester City previously.

The Gunners are in desperate need of a midfielder due to the shortages and lack of quality in the midfield, which has been evident in recent weeks.

It was believed that Mikel Arteta was set to bring in Arthur Melo on a loan deal, but it seems to have hit a stumbling block as Juventus are unable to find a replacement for the Brazilian.

However, Sanches would certainly be the ideal alternative, and he has already hinted at his intentions about joining the club.

The Lille midfielder has on the best ball-carrying tendencies in Europe highlighting his confidence and bravery to turn defence into attack in a swift manner.

Renato Sanches can elevate the Arsenal midfield. (@exceedingxpuns)

Arsenal’s disappointing 0-0 draw against Burnley on Sunday afternoon highlighted the inability for Arsenal to transition from defence to attack, as Albert Sambi Lokonga was tasked with playing in the anchor role, which he struggled with.

Sanches would certainly solve the midfield issue, and if he can maintain his fitness, he would be the perfect solution to the problem for Arteta.

There is an extra incentive to sign him because according to SportItalia , the French champions approached Sanches to offer him a new contract. However, the 24-year-old put talks on hold because he is ready for a new adventure.

Renato Sanches' injury record makes him a risky signing for Arsenal in January. (Philippe Lecoeur/FEP/Icon Sport via Getty Images)

And the player himself confirmed that Arsenal could be his destination, as Speaking to L’Equipe, Sanches said: “Maybe Milan and Arsenal are interested but I don’t know. I spoke with my agent, I know which clubs are calling me but I can’t say right now. But I know I’m ready. If an offer comes in, I’ll find out what’s best for me.”

The intrigue at a potential deal is also reciprocated as Arsenal are 'very interested' in signing the Lille midfielder, according to recent reports.

French outlet Le10sport claims that the Gunners have made their interest in Sanches known to the player, the club, and his representatives.

Premier League Champions Manchester City currently have an array of Benfica graduates in their squad and Portuguese football expert Tom Kundert touched on how Sanches was part of a successful crop that City have targeted.

Speaking on the MEN's latest Facebook Live , Kundert said: "Benfica just got this fantastic training academy together and it produced player after player. There are all the ones who went to City, you've also got players like Renato Sanches and Joao Felix who sold for huge fees.”

Sanches would be a risky signing due to his injury record but purely based on his ability, he would certainly be a desirable player for Arsenal, who would certainly add a major improvement to the squad.

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