Arsenal have already signed the missing midfielder for their system - saving more money for a striker this summer

Arsenal have lacked a true No.8 all season in their system – but have they already signed one for next season?

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta celebrates after the team's victory in the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC at Emirates Stadium on February 04, 2024 in London, England.

Arsenal are resurgent since their blip over New Year, winning their last three games and laying down a marker in the title race.

Defeat at home to Liverpool would have all but guaranteed the Premier League trophy remaining in the northwest. Instead, the Gunners cut the gap on the Reds through a dominant display, as Kai Havertz and Jorginho both shone in their return to the team.

Both have been questioned about their place in the side at times since moving from Chelsea to the Emirates Stadium, with neither having a natural role in the midfield. Havertz has struggled at No.8 alongside Martin Odegaard, while Jorginho is more of a No.6, pushing Declan Rice further forward. 

Kai Havertz controls the ball during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium in London on February 4, 2024.

Kai Havertz isn't a No.8, is he? (Image credit: ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

While both have their uses depending on the game though, Arsenal may have found the perfect option under their noses – who had a stunning game at the weekend – in Albert Sambi Lokonga.

RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU...

There is virtually no expectation for the Belgian following his move to Luton Town on loan for the season. But Lokonga has been unlucky: injury plagued his first half of the season, while working under Patrick Vieira last season was curtailed when the Arsenal legend was sacked by Crystal Palace. 

Lokonga is finally showing his worth, however. Against Newcastle United, the loanee was exceptional in the centre of the park, perhaps his best performance since Christmas. Sending him to a team that want to use physicality and possession under Rob Edwards was a great move, though the Hatters' lack of dominance in games means that Lokonga is learning how to play out of possession, too.

Albert Sambi Lokonga of Luton Town clashes with Bruno Guimaraes of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Luton Town at St. James Park on February 03, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England.