Arsenal tipped to sign Renato Sanches

Kevin Campbell believes Renato Sanches should be signed by Arsenal, stating the Lille midfielder could be an upgrade over Albert Sambi Lokonga.

Arsenal have been looking at bringing in a new midfielder, and the search might still be ongoing despite the arrival and emergence of Albert Sambi Lokonga. The Belgian has taken his chances well in the injury-enforced absence of Granit Xhaka, establishing himself as the current first-choice alongside Thomas Partey.

The future of Ainsley Maitland-Niles remains uncertain, and irrespective of the Arsenal academy graduate’s next move, the club is likely to sign another midfielder. They might go with an experienced player who fits their profile requirements. Although they face still competition in his pursuit, Renato Sanches is a player linked with the Gunners.

Sanches is a player tipped heavily to make his way the Premier League in January, with several clubs vying for his signature. Liverpool are in the mix with other sides, and Lille might be forced to cash in on the 24-year-old Portuguese midfielder with his contract expiring in the summer of 2023.

Arsenal could take this opportunity to accelerate their plans and bring Sanches in the January window itself. However, it will be interesting to know what fee Lille will demand for the Portugal international.

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Former Arsenal striker Kevin Campbell believes Sanches would be ideal for Mikel Arteta’s side and remains convinced his qualities will upgrade the Arsenal midfield. Speaking to Football Insider, he suggested that the 24-year-old Portuguese international will be a good fit in the Premier League.

Campbell said, “I think he would be very good if they can get him in. He’s suffered with injuries, but he’s still young. He’s a powerhouse in that midfield – he can pick the ball up, run, he can shoot, he can create. Having that power in the midfield can make a huge difference. No disrespect to him but against Liverpool; for example, Sambi Lokonga was taken off by Arteta to save him.”

“He was getting robbed time after time in that midfield. Maybe there needs to be a bit more experience in there, and Sanches would bring it. There’s a big opportunity for Arsenal – they’re still fifth in the table. They will be trying to improve the top end of the pitch and pushing for those top four places.”

Arsenal could be in the market if an opportunity arises, and Sanches certainly seems like a player they might be interested in. However, if Lille are absolute in their decision to sell the 24-year-old in the next window, many other clubs are expected to become part of the chase.