By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

19th May, 2023 | 1:30pm

Sources: Burnley open talks to sign Arsenal star Sambi Lokonga

Burnley have registered interest in signing Arsenal midfielder Sambi Lokonga on loan this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

The Championship leaders are preparing for their return to the Premier League next season and have made the 23-year-old a top target.

Clarets boss Vincent Kompany is believed to be a huge admirer of Lokonga after working with him during his time in charge of Anderlecht.

Belgium-born Lokonga came through Anderlecht’s academy as a youngster and spent four years in the first team of the Belgian Pro League side after making his debut in 2017.

During their time together at Anderlecht, Lokonga made 39 appearances under Kompany, scoring three goals and assisting three times from midfield.

His form caught the attention of Premier League giants Arsenal, who signed Lokonga for £17.2million in 2021.

But Lokonga failed to cement a place in Mikel Arteta’s plans and the Gunners are now eager to offload Lokonga this summer after an underwhelming loan spell at Crystal Palace this season.

Burnley have moved quickly to enquire about a loan deal to bring Lokonga to Turf Moor for the 2023/24 campaign.

It is understood that Lokonga is happy to sign another loan deal next season, but wants guarantees that he’ll be regularly involved with the first team.

Lokonga has made 24 appearances for Palace this season for a total of 1,395 minutes, but failed to contribute any goals or assists during his loan stint.

In other news, Burnley are plotting a move to sign Man City sensation Trafford