Arteta had chats with Man City icon Kompany over Arsenal signing Lokonga

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed he spoke to Vincent Kompany privately before signing Albert Sambi Lokonga.

Arsenal today confirmed Lokonga’s arrival from Anderlecht, who are managed by Kompany, for a fee in the region of £18million.

The 21-year-old made 69 senior appearances for the club since his debut at age 18 and is a hot prospect in Belgian football, having received his first call-up to the national side in March this year.

And now Arteta has explained how his personal relationship with Kompany from their time together at Manchester City helped in his decision to sign the player this summer.

Speaking to the official club website, Arteta said: “Albert is a very intelligent player who has shown great maturity in his performances during his development.

“He has been coached well by Vincent Kompany and his team at Anderlecht.

“I know Vincent very well and he talks so highly about Albert and the positive impact he had to Anderlecht in recent seasons.

“We’re confident Albert’s ready for the next stage in his development and we’re looking forward to welcoming a new member to our squad with his quality and presence.”

Do you think Lokonga will start regularly for Arsenal this season? Let us know in the comments section.

Lokonga becomes Arsenal’s second arrival following Nuno Tavares’ signing from Benfica last week.

More signings are expected by the Gunners in the coming weeks, including highly-rated Brighton & Hove Albion defender Ben White.

Arteta will also be aiming to add another midfielder of quality in order to strengthen his side as they pursue Champions League football next season.

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