Albert Sambi Lokonga says Arsenal have a top talent in their ranks who’s ‘really fast’

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Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga says Ainsley Maitland-Niles is one of the fastest players in the Gunners ranks.

The Belgium international joined Arsenal in the summer, the Gunners reportedly paying Anderlecht £15million plus add-ons.

Lokonga has featured regularly for Mikel Arteta’s side, making seven appearances in all competitions including four in the Premier League.

The 21-year-old won his first Belgium cap in September, but wasn’t involved in the Red Devils’ UEFA Nations League semi-final and third place playoff.

Earlier this week, Lokonga answered Arsenal fan questions in a Q&A, which was posted on the club’s YouTube page.

When asked who he thought was the quickest player at the club, he replied: “Ainsley or Auba… Ainsley’s fast, really fast!”

Maitland-Niles remains at Arsenal despite seemingly coming close to leaving in the summer.

The 24-year-old reportedly had a loan switch to Everton blocked on transfer deadline day.

He subsequently posted a message on his Instagram which said: “All I wanna do is go where I’m wanted and where I’m gonna play.”

However, Arteta held clear-the-air talks with the player, and he stayed put at the Emirates.

However, Maitland-Niles continues to struggle for game time at Arsenal, with just one Premier League start under his belt this term.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see him leave on loan again this winter, as he did last term when he had a stint at West Brom.

But with Maitland-Niles’ contract expiring in 2023, the club has to soon decide whether to cash in on him or let his deal enter its last 12 months if he doesn’t pen a new deal.