Brighton are in talks with Arsenal to loan 23-year-old midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga, whom Mikel Arteta no longer favours.
According to 90 Min, Brighton are angling for a move for Albert Sambi Lokonga and have begun talks with Arsenal over a potential loan move. The 23-year-old Belgian remains an outsider of Mikel Arteta’s plans for the season, with the club ready to offload him immediately.
Brighton has done some impressive deals in this window by bringing in key players to strengthen their side. There have been vital departures from last season’s team. Levi Colwill returned to Chelsea, and Alexis Mac Allister joined Liverpool.
The biggest outgoing came in the form of Moises Caicedo, who joined Chelsea in a British-record deal for £115 million. Mahmoud Dahoud arrived very early in the window on a free transfer, and so far, Roberto De Zerbi has not missed the Ecuadorian’s absence.
For their part, Brighton started the season in scintillating fashion, recording two wins and scoring eight goals. They currently sit on top of the Premier League table, but their squad may lack the necessary depth in midfield.
As things stand, Lille midfielder Carlos Baleba remains their priority target, with the Seagulls close to agreeing a move. The report insists De Zerbi also wants another midfielder. He has reportedly identified 23-year-old Arsenal man Albert Sambi Lokonga.
Lokonga’s time at Arsenal seems to have reached its concluding stages, as the club are open to offloading the Belgian immediately. He was close to joining Burnley on loan, but with time that move no longer seems like an option.
Brighton could look to take the Belgian on loan and have already begun talks with Arsenal over a potential deal. The Gunners may agree to a proposal if some sort of buy option. The Seagulls could oblige, but the reports surrounding Lokonga have some contrasting news.
Fabrizio Romano insisted Lokonga was an option to Baleba if Brighton could not get the deal done for the Lille star. Here, 90 Min suggests De Zerbi want both. Either way, Arsenal will push for an exit and offload the Belgian at all costs.
A loan move to Brighton with a buy option would suit all parties. A good season under De Zerbi could protect Arsenal’s valuation of the midfielder. For now, Lokonga does not have a future at Arsenal and is not expected to make their matchday squad for the foreseeable future.
