Newly appointed Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany is reportedly eyeing a double swoop for Arsenal‘s Oleksandr Zinchenko and Albert Sambi Lokonga, according to reports from the Daily Mirror and Football Transfers.
Kompany, who recently left Burnley after an unsuccessful relegation battle, is familiar with both players from his time in the Premier League. He was at City with Zinchenko for two years and previously managed Lokonga at Anderlecht.
Zinchenko, a versatile left-back known for his technical ability and tactical intelligence, could provide a valuable option for Bayern, who may be losing Alphonso Davies to Real Madrid.
Lokonga, a promising young midfielder, has been compared to Yaya Toure by Kompany himself.
However, Arsenal‘s stance on the potential transfers remains unclear. While Zinchenko has struggled with injuries and competition for his position, he remains a highly regarded player. Lokonga, meanwhile, has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to fully establish himself in the Gunners’ starting lineup.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal‘s manager, has previously spoken highly of Lokonga, stating that Kompany recommended the midfielder after his impressive performances in Belgium.
Kompany‘s interest in the Arsenal duo highlights the potential impact of his appointment at Bayern Munich. It remains to be seen whether he can successfully lure them away from North London or if the club would be open to selling both.
Lokonga plans to leave Arsenal
At the end of last month, Albert Sambi Lokonga reiterated his intention to leave Arsenal this summer. In an interview with VOOsport, Lokonga revealed, “I had a discussion with the club and what was said is that the best solution for me was to leave.” This follows his earlier statement to BBC radio where he confirmed that “the best thing for me was to leave the club.”
Lokonga spent last season on loan at Luton Town, making 19 appearances despite a few injury setbacks. He finished the season strong, starting five consecutive matches in the final month.
Arsenal are open to both loan and permanent offers for Lokonga this summer, as they aim to sign a new midfielder.