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#3 James Maddison
There is no doubt that James Maddison is an admirer of former Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil. The question is, will the Englishman also join the Gunners and potentially churn out a career as successful as the German international in his glory days?
Since making his debut for Leicester City, Maddison has netted 21 times and laid 17 assists in 98 Premier League games. The Foxes signed him for £20 million but have reportedly imposed a £60 million price tag on the Englishman.
Should the 24-year-old join Arsenal this summer, he will definitely lighten the burden on Smith Rowe's shoulders and add more creativity to the team. However, the huge fee that Arsenal would have to fork out might be a hindrance to the deal.
#2 Ruben Neves
Similar to the other players on this list, Ruben Neves has also been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal. The Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder could cost £35 million as new manager Bruno Lage appears eager to keep the player beyond this summer.
Neves joined Wolves in August 2017 and has since made 176 appearances in all competitions. A defensive midfielder by trade, the 24-year-old played in all but two Premier League matches last season. During the same period, he scored five goals and provided one assist.
Similar to Maddison, Neves brings with him a wealth of Premier League experience. The Portuguese international might be the perfect player to accompany Thomas Partey in midfield for Arsenal next season.
#1 Albert Sambi Lokonga
After turning down two bids from Italy, Albert Sambi Lokonga is all set to join Arsenal. Reports have claimed that the 21-year-old had completed his medical and his move to the Gunners should be announced imminently.
Not much is known about this young but highly-rated midfielder. But Premier League legend and Anderlecht manager Vincent Kompany recently provided some insights about Lokonga. He said:
“With his qualities at his age, he stands out for me. Will Sambi win his duels? Is he improving his defensive work? You ask yourself these questions as a coach. Well, I’ve seen him make a lot of progress in that area.”
With Matteo Guendouzi's departure and Granit Xhaka also likely to leave Arsenal, the Gunners urgently need to sign a replacement. Lokonga can play either as a central midfielder or in defensive midfield, and fits Arsenal's requirements perfectly. He will also bring in some much-needed leadership qualities to North London. Lokonga has already captained the Anderlecht first-team at the young age of 21.
