Arsenal face January blow as Ivan Toney transfer battle heats up
Arsenal's focus this weekend will predominantly be on the top-of-the-table clash with Liverpool, but the transfer talk has also begun.
Victory at Anfield would ensure Mikel Arteta's team spend Christmas Day at the top of the Premier League table. It won't be easy, though, with Jurgen Klopp's team yet to lose on home soil this term.
Results over the next couple of weeks, including a home meeting with West Ham on December 28, could be a factor in how busy Arsenal will feel they need to be in January. There are other things to keep in mind, though, and Mirror Football has taken a closer look at the latest transfer news affecting the Gunners.
Spurs unlikely to win Toney race
Tottenham have joined Arsenal in the chase for Brentford star Ivan Toney but look unlikely to land the striker in January. That's according to The Athletic, who claim Ange Postecoglou's men are now 'less likely' to land a player they considered over the summer.
Toney scored 20 Premier League goals last season, with only Erling Haaland and former Spurs frontman Harry Kane bagging more. However, he has yet to feature this season as he serves a ban for breaching betting rules.
Mikel Arteta's dream Arsenal line up as last-gasp January transfers are secured
The England international's ban is due to end soon, prompting links with a January exit. However, Brentford are unlikely to be keen to sell as they prepare to potentially lose both Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo during the Africa Cup of Nations.
Gunners loanee could be sent back
Luton could be about to cut short Albert Sambi Lokonga's loan, according to TeamTalk. Belgian midfielder Lokonga joined on a season-long deal from Arsenal but has barely featured for Rob Edwards' side.
What do Arsenal need to do in January? Have your say in the comments section
Albert Sambi Lokonga made his Luton Town return against Manchester City (Getty Images)Lokonga started against Fulham and Wolves in September, but then suffered an injury which has kept him on the sidelines. He returned to action this month, coming off the bench in a defeat to Manchester City.
The 24-year-old also spent the second half of last season out on loan, joining former Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira at Crystal Palace. However, he only played twice in the final two months of the season after Vieira was sacked and replaced by Roy Hodgson.
Financial rules could hamper January business
Arsenal spent on new signings last January, but any hope of a repeat could hinge on the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules. That's according to The Athletic, who recognise the decision to make the David Raya signing an initial loan points to how tight things are financially.
The same publication suggests Aaron Ramsdale may be the "most obvious" contender to be sold as he looks to make sure of a Euro 2024 place with England. In terms of incomings, up front looks like the position most in need of investment but no big-money moves are anticipated.
Last January, Arsenal spent around £50m on new arrivals. Jorginho, Leandro Trossard and Jakub Kiwior all came in, with no players sold for a significant fee.
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