As you may have heard, Arsenal are interested in bringing AC Milan maestro Sandro Tonali to the Premier League.
The £35,000-a-week man is one of the brightest midfield talents in Europe, drawing comparisons to Italy legend Andrea Pirlo for his composed style of play.
Roma icon Francesco Totti even said Tonali plays “like Gerrard” when waxing lyrical about the 22-year-old.
Now, if a report from Tutto Mercato Web is true, Arsenal could be close to signing the Italy international.
What’s the story?
Well, the Italian news outlet believe AC Milan are in talks to sign Albert Sambi Lokonga on a permanent basis.
Arsenal invested a lot of money in the Belgian – £15m to be exact – when signing him from Anderlecht, and he is yet to fulfil his potential, so why would Mikel Arteta sanction a permanent exit after just one season?
In our view, it could have something to do with Tonali and a player-plus-cash deal.
After all, Lokonga admitted his disappointment at a lack of first-team opportunities last season, so if he is being promised regular action at the San Siro, he would presumably jump at the move.
It has also been said that Arsenal are open to selling the 22-year-old.
Therefore, a deal involving Tonali and Lokonga could certainly be in the works.
Sandro Tonali would thrive at Arsenal
In our view, Tonali is the ideal holding midfielder for Mikel Arteta.
The Italian is technically outstanding, and also possesses the awareness to make things look easy at the base of midfield, just like Pirlo did.
Tonali fits the age profile Arsenal are looking for, which means Arteta can improve him just like the Spaniard has with Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Gabriel Martinelli.
Furthermore, the AC Milan No.8 also contributes with goals from midfield, scoring five last season, while also providing three assists.
If Arsenal can get a deal for Tonali over the line, we believe a place in the Champions League next season would be a certainty.
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