Arsenal lining up sensational swap deal as club identify perfect replacement for Bukayo Saka

Arsenal have reportedly identified a replacement for Bukayo Saka after the winger suffered a serious hamstring injury against Crystal Palace.

Saka is said to miss 'many weeks', manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed, after being forced off during the first half of the 5-1 win over Crystal Palace.

The injury has ruled the 23-year-old out of Arsenal's home clash with Ipswich Town.

Saka had a specialist consultation during the week to assess the extent of the injury. Reports have suggested that the winger will not require surgery - which would significantly reduce his recovery time compared to if he had suffered a complete tear - though there has yet to be official confirmation.

Either way, Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal will need to find 'solutions' to cover for Saka, who has been a key player throughout the Spaniard's time in charge.

Italian outlet MilanLive have reported that this solution could be Samuel Chukwueze, with Arsenal said to be interested in signing the AC Milan winger.

It is claimed that the Nigerian could be available for just €20 million after falling out of favour under Paulo Fonseca, with Aston Villa boss Unai Emery said to be keen to bring him to Villa Park alongside Arsenal's interest.

The report adds that the Gunners could be willing to allow another player to move in the opposite direction to complete a deal for the 25-year-old, with Jakub Kiwior said to be of interest to both Milan and Juventus.

AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze is reportedly of interest to Arsenal (Image: Getty)

Kiwior has been persistently linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium, but has been Arsenal's third-choice centre-back this year amid their defensive injury crisis. The Poland international signed for the Gunners from Spezia in January 2023.

But Milan's interest could tie into their own defensive concerns, with MilanLive adding that centre-back Fikayo Tomori is also of interest to Juventus, who could launch a formal bid in 2025.

Seven-time European Cup winners Milan are currently in eighth place in Serie A and eight points off the final Champions League qualification place, which is held by Lazio at present.