Burnley ‘are leading the race to sign Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga on loan’ as Vincent Kompany looks to reunite with his former Anderlecht star

Burnley are leading the race to sign Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga on loan.

As reported by The Evening Standard, Burnley manager Vincent Kompany is eager to reunite with Lokonga, who he managed at Anderlecht.

Lokonga had a loan spell at Crystal Palace in the second half of last season and played nine times but fell out of favour after Roy Hodgson returned as manager.

Arsenal are open to loaning Lokonga out again but there is also a possibility that he could depart permanently.

Lokonga joined Arsenal from Anderlecht in 2021 and has made 39 appearances for the Gunners. 

Lokonga and Kompany previously worked together when they were both at Anderlecht

The 23-year-old doesn’t appear to be in Mikel Arteta’s plans and seems likely to depart before the closure of the transfer window.

Burnley have already brought in a host of players as they look to ensure that they are ready to make an impact in the Premier League.

James Trafford, Zeki Amdouni, Jordan Beyer, Dara O’Shea, Nathan Redmond, Michael Obafemi, Lawrence Vigoroux and Luca Koleosho are amongst the players to have joined the Clarets.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are focusing on outgoings after already signing Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber.

Players such as Auston Trusty, Cedric and Nicolas Pepe are amongst those who could depart. Trusty is the subject of interest from Sheffield United.

Lokonga had a spell at Crystal Palace last season and could be sent out on loan again