Crystal Palace sign Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga and Naouirou Ahamada

Crystal Palace have signed Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga on loan until the end of the season and have also completed a deal to bring Stuttgart’s Naouirou Ahamada to the club.

Lokonga has started just two league games for Mikel Arteta’s men this term, with the Arsenal boss preferring a midfield trio of Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka and Martin Odegaard.

The 23-year-old could now be set for more game time at Selhurst Park after Palace reached an agreement with the Gunners.

Lokonga has been kept out of the Arsenal starting line-up by Thomas Partey this season

Lokonga’s latest appearance for the Premier League leaders came on Friday when he replaced Partey at half time against Manchester City.

The Belgian midfielder struggled to make an impact from the bench as Arsenal slipped to a 1-0 defeat and exited the FA Cup.

Lokonga has had a difficult first 18 months at Arsenal since arriving from Anderlecht in July 2021, and has been limited to just 39 appearances during this period.

Patrick Vieira wants to strengthen his midfield before the transfer window closes

A move to south London could allow him to find some form as Patrick Vieira looks to his former club for reinforcements.

Palace have also announced the £10.5m signing of Ahamada. The 20-year-old French central midfielder joins on a three-and-a-half-year deal, with the option of a further two years.

Ahamada joined Stuttgart from Juventus and the French Under-18 international has made 19 appearances in all competitions this season for the Bundesliga side.

Naouirou Ahamada has joined Crystal Palace from Bundesliga side Stuttgart for £10.5m

During that time he has also managed two goals and two assists in the German top-flight for Bruno Labbadia’s team.

Palace had also sought an unlikely potential move for Manchester United’s Anthony Elanga, but the Swede will remain at Old Trafford. 

Palace are currently 12th in…