Crystal Palace sign Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga and Naouirou Ahamada

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

Lokonga have 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 get more playing time at Selhurst Park after Palace agreed a deal with the Gunners.

Crystal Palace signed Albert Sambi Lokonga from Arsenal on loan until the end of the season

Lokonga have been kept out of Arsenal’s starting line-up by Thomas Partey this season

Lokonga’s last 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 off the bench as Arsenal fell 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, having 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 while Patrick Vieira looks for reinforcements at his old club.

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

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

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

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

Palace had also been eyeing a potential move for Manchester United’s Anthony Elanga, but the Swede is increasingly likely to remain at Old Trafford.

Palace are currently 12th in the Premier League table but have only won once since domestic football returned last month.

Vieira has limited options in the middle of the park, and the Eagles have been linked with a move for Conor Gallagher, who enjoyed a good loan spell at the club last season.

Gallagher wants to fight for his place at Chelsea or move to a ‘Big Six’ club and will stay at Stamford Bridge.