Arsenal want to sign Renato Sanches in January

Arsenal are considering a January move for Lille midfielder Renato Sanches, Le 10 Sport claims.

The Gunners are braced for the absence of Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny in January due to African Cup of Nations duty.

This could leave them with just Albert Sambi Lokonga and Ainsley Maitland-Niles as central midfield options if Granit Xhaka remains sidelined.

Xhaka is currently out until the New Year after a medial knee ligament injury. It is unclear whether he will be fit at the beginning of 2022.

Hence, they have been touted to pursue a new midfielder, and Le 10 Sport claims that the club are very interested in landing Sanches.

The north London club decided against an approach for the Portugal international last summer due to the £35 million price tag.

The 24-year-old could be available for a lesser fee of £27m in January, considering his contract expires at the end of next season.

The Gunners are expected to face stiff competition from AC Milan, who are looking to spur their title chances with a new midfielder.

Sanches is being seen as a long-term replacement for Franck Kessie, who is likely to leave on a free transfer when his contract expires next summer.