Arsenal close to shock loan deal for former star of Premier League rivals

Arsenal continued their miserable run of form against Manchester City in recent years on Saturday, as they slumped to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Pep Guardiola’s side. 

The Gunners have lost 12 of their last 13 matches against the Citizens across all competitions, including a 5-0 thrashing at The Etihad earlier this season.

The defeat ended Mikel Arteta’s side’s run of four straight wins in the Premier League, while City extended their lead at the top of the table.

Now, it appears that the Spaniard could look to a former Premier League star to bolster his Gunners squad ahead of a pivotal second half of the season, as they look to return to European football next term.

As per FourFourTwo, Arsenal are edging closer to a loan deal for former Liverpool midfielder Gini Wijnaldum.

Wijnaldum could be set for an instant return to the Premier League

The report suggests that the Dutchman, who is currently in France with Paris Saint-Germain, could be drafted in to replace Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny, both of whom are set to go to the African Cup of Nations in the coming days.

The 31-year-old excelled as part of a midfield three during his time at Anfield, but has since struggled to have quite the same effect in the French capital.

This season, Wijnaldum has started just nine of PSG’s Ligue 1 matches, and has scored just three goals in 22 games across all competitions.

Arsenal are reportedly keen on a loan move for the player as it allows a temporary solution to their AFCON-related issues.