Arsenal could sanction another loan deal for Albert Sambi Lokonga amid Sevilla’s interest, as the midfielder is out of Mikel Arteta’s plans.
According to Diario de Sevilla, Sevilla could mount a successful chase to sign Albert Sambi Lokonga on loan for a whole season, as Arsenal are open to the idea. The Belgian has no place in Mikel Arteta’s plans, although the Gunners might stress on some sort of buy option that guarantees them value retention on the midfielder.
Arsenal open to Albert Sambi Lokonga loan
Albert Sambi Lokonga seemed like a masterstroke signing, as he was one of the first young stars to arrive under Mikel Arteta’s reign. A decent first few months under Mikel Arteta soon faded away as the midfielder lost his place in the lineup and was reduced to a bench option for most parts.
Lokonga has since gone on to play for Crystal Palace and Luton Town on loan deals, as he did impress at the latter in the previous campaign despite having an injury-ravaged first half of the season. His performances may have helped Arsenal retain his value, as they are open to sending him on another loan.
Lokonga is expected to leave Arsenal this summer, as some of his recent comments made him look like a resigned figure who knows he’s not part of Arteta’s plans. The Gunners would ideally prefer to sell him outright and recoup a significant chunk of their investment on the 24-year-old Belgian, but that might not be the case this summer.
Sevilla are keen on Lokonga, and owing to their financial situation, they might work hard towards bringing him on loan rather than afford a permanent fee. He was on their list previously, but circumstances prevented them from making a move, although this time around, they might be able to bring him to Spain.
Arsenal might insist on guarantees
Arsenal are eager to utilise their investments wisely, and owing to Lokonga’s performances, they might not dream of making a decent enough profit with his sale. In fact, they might be lucky to get what they spent to sign him, and with his contract running out in 2026, another loan might diminish his current value.
Hence, should the Gunners sanction a loan to Sevilla or elsewhere, they might strongly insist on a buy option or, better yet, an obligation clause that will protect their valuation. Whether that might be acceptable to suitors remains the question, but for Arsenal, it would be the wisest decision with the midfielder.
