Both players are entering the twilight of their careers yet managed to secure a significant combined transfer fee, providing Jurgen Klopp with funds to strengthen his squad. In contrast, Arsenal may need to sell some fringe players before resuming their summer spending spree, having already invested £200 million.
According to Express Sport, four players could be on Mikel Arteta and Edu’s list for potential sales, possibly generating a combined £130 million, particularly if Saudi Arabia escalates its interest in these players.
Kieran Tierney
Kieran Tierney seems to have fallen down the pecking order under Arteta, with Oleksandr Zinchenko often preferred at left-back due to his ability to invert into midfield.
Despite Tierney’s undeniable talent, a transfer might offer him more consistent playing time.
Newcastle and Celtic have shown interest but are yet to meet Arsenal’s £30 million valuation. However, Saudi Arabian clubs, known for paying premium fees for established players, could easily match this asking price.
Albert Sambi Lokonga
Albert Sambi Lokonga’s exclusion from Arsenal’s U.S. pre-season tour suggests he no longer features in Arteta’s plans. A reunion with former Anderlecht manager Vincent Kompany at Burnley seems plausible.
It remains uncertain whether this move would be permanent or a loan deal, but Saudi clubs might outbid Burnley and enable Arsenal to recover a significant portion of the £15 million spent on Lokonga in 2021.
Arsenal reportedly turned down a £7 million offer from Monaco in January, but a bid closer to £10 million might tempt them to sell the 23-year-old.
Thomas Partey
With Declan Rice’s arrival, Thomas Partey’s future at Arsenal is uncertain. At 30 years old and with two years remaining on his contract, Arsenal might view this summer as the best opportunity to secure a sizable fee for the Ghanaian midfielder.
Juventus have shown interest, but financially robust Saudi clubs could more readily meet Arsenal’s valuation. A fee around £40 million, comparable to Fabinho’s transfer, might convince Arsenal to part ways with Partey.
Folarin Balogun
Although Gabriel Jesus’ injury sidelines him at the start of the season, Folarin Balogun may still leave Arsenal. The young striker is determined to secure a first-choice role and is unwilling to go out on loan again, despite his impressive performance at Reims last season.
Arsenal’s £50 million asking price deterred Inter Milan, who shifted their focus to Gianluca Scamacca. However, Balogun’s potential as a top young talent might attract Saudi clubs eager to sign a highly sought-after striker.
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