Report explains role of Euro 2020 manager in Arsenal’s bid to sign £20k-a-week gem

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Arsenal turned to Belgium manager Roberto Martinez to gauge a better understanding of Albert Sambi Lokonga, according to Het Laatste Nieuws.

Mikel Arteta is eager to strike a deal with Anderlecht for the Belgian maestro this summer. And talks have been progressing well between the two clubs, with a deal nearly complete.

Lokonga has also agreed personal terms with Arsenal ahead of a multi-million-pound move to north London. The deal will make him Anderlecht’s third-most lucrative sale, only behind the departures of Jeremy Doku and Youri Tielemans.

Arsenal believe Lokonga will be worth the money, as Arteta is keen to work with the 21-year-old. The Gunners believe the midfielder will add a dynamic presence to their engine room and has plenty of room for development.

But the Emirates Stadium side only stepped up their approach after speaking with Martinez. Arsenal contacted the Belgium boss, among others, to gauge a better picture of Lokonga’s talents.

Martinez called Arsenal target Lokonga up to the Red Devils squad for the first time last month. The Anderlecht talent was an unused substitute against Greece, however, and did not make the squad for Euro 2020. He has played seven U21 fixtures in his career, though.

Arsenal draw on close connections in Lokonga pursuit

Arsenal appear to be drawing on their close connections in pursuit of Anderlecht captain Lokonga this summer. As well as contacting Martinez, Sky Sports have claimed the relationship Arteta has with Paars-wit boss Vincent Kompany was key.

The Gunners are wise to explore the opinions of those who know Lokonga best before spending millions on his arrival. Especially as the £20,000-per-week talent is considered to be more as one for their future than for next season.

And Arsenal clearly were impressed by what their heard during their due diligence, with Lokonga edging closer to a move. A deal that Arteta is surely excited by, as he adds a youthful player to his engine room that he can mould to his liking.