Arsenal are close to completing a move for Anderlecht midfielder Albert Lokonga, in a deal which could have implications for Sander Berge.
Berge is thought to be on the Gunners’ radar. He’s admired by Mikel Arteta and with Arsenal needing central midfielders, he ticks a number of boxes.
United are thought to be asking for around £35m for Berge. That has been the stance since the season finished and little has changed.
Reports in Italy seem to suggest otherwise, mind. There are claims from those working in Serie A that Berge could be available for as little as £15m. This is something we just don’t see happening, however.
But reports from Football.London today suggest that Arsenal are now close to a deal for Albert Sambi Lokonga. The midfielder is edging towards a £15m switch to North London.
That, of course, could impact United and Berge.
How Arsenal move for Lokonga could help United with Berge
There’s no guarantee that Arsenal won’t make a move for Berge as well in the future. But the fact they’ve secured a player who plays in the Norwegian’s exact position suggests United could be in a good position.
Lokonga is an all-action midfielder and will be one for the here and now, as well as the future for the Gunners. The 21-year-old is highly-rated, and is expected to cost Arsenal around £15m.
It’s also claimed a deal for Ben White is close. That is said to be around the £55m mark. It is, then, hard to see The Gunners forking out another £35m on Berge right now. Albeit, they are expected to spend more as the summer progresses.
Ultimately, United hold a lot of the aces with Berge as things stand. Whether we see Arsenal’s interest come again soon, remains to be seen.