Napoli are looking at Albert Sambi Lokonga amid reports the Belgian midfielder is unhappy at Arsenal after irregular playing time.
According to Area Napoli, as relayed by Sport Witness, Albert Sambi Lokonga has emerged on the radar of Napoli ahead of the January transfer window. The Belgian midfielder is reportedly unhappy with minutes at Arsenal this season, while his development has stalled following a bit-part role under Mikel Arteta.
Albert Sambi Lokonga was a wise transfer decision from Arsenal after signing the Belgian prodigy in 2021. He started displaying top form when the Gunners missed a few key midfielders and occupied different roles under Arteta.
However, as the 2021/22 season progressed, the Gunners’ boss considered him to play cover for Thomas Partey. While his attributes point towards a more attacking role in the side, Lokonga has done well in the holding midfield role.
Lokonga had hoped for regular minutes in his second season, but his situation has stayed the same. Arteta has remained adamant about not offering many minutes to the midfielder in the Premier League as his current setup yielded fabulous results.
The Belgian has managed around 196 minutes of action, with only a single start in the league. That, too, came due to Partey’s absence, and Lokonga is reportedly unhappy with his playing time at the club. Moreover, there is a feeling his development has stalled, as regular Europa League games could not help.
Arsenal could consider sending him on loan or sanction a permanent sale if a sizeable offer comes along. Many reports suggest the Gunners value him close to €30 million, and there is considerable interest from Serie A clubs.
AC Milan are keen on signing the midfielder along with Juventus, AS Roma, and now Napoli. Surprisingly, there is significantly less interest from the Premier League, although Lokonga will join any club right now, considering he needs to play regularly.
Napoli are the latest entrant in the chase, as they seek quality reinforcements in January. The current Serie A leaders are flying now and could make do with crucial additions. Whether they are willing to approach Arsenal to sign Lokonga permanently remains the question.
They may even consider a loan deal and include an option to buy after the season ends. Arsenal are already looking at replacements in the market, and if they can secure the right players, Lokonga could leave.
The Belgian midfielder would be an excellent option for the Serie A giants and one that could aid them in their quest to win the title. Arsenal also remain in a similar position in the Premier League, but they could allow the player to depart, provided a replacement gets in place.
